Russian Regions Tighten Alcohol Sales Rules

Since the start of 2025, authorities in various Russian regions have launched an active campaign to combat alcoholism. This initiative involves introducing strict limitations on the trade of alcoholic beverages. The measures are being implemented to address public health concerns and reduce the negative social impact associated with excessive alcohol consumption.

A significant part of this campaign focuses on specific types of establishments known as naliyka. These are catering venues located in or near residential apartment blocks. Unlike standard retail outlets, these venues have historically operated with the ability to sell alcohol during night hours. The new regional policies aim to close these loopholes and standardize alcohol sales regulations across different types of businesses.

Beginning in early 2025, regional governments across the country have taken decisive steps to limit the availability of alcohol. The primary objective of these measures is to reduce the rates of alcoholism and improve the overall well-being of the population. Authorities are implementing a variety of restrictions that directly impact how and when alcohol can be purchased.

The scope of these initiatives varies by region, but the core goal remains consistent: to limit access to alcohol. The regulations are often framed as part of a broader public health strategy. By restricting sales, officials hope to decrease the instances of public intoxication and related disturbances.

Key aspects of the regional strategies include:

• Limiting the hours during which alcohol can be sold.
• Restricting the locations where alcohol retailers can operate.
• Targeting specific types of venues that operate outside standard regulations.

The fight against alcoholism has specifically targeted naliyka establishments. These are defined as catering venues that are situated in apartment buildings or immediately adjacent to them. These venues have been identified as a major source of night-time alcohol sales, contributing to the problem of public intoxication in residential areas.

Unlike standard retail chains, naliyka venues have utilized their status as catering businesses to sell alcohol late into the night. This distinction has allowed them to operate with fewer restrictions than standard alcohol retailers. The new measures aim to close this gap in regulation.

The crackdown focuses on:

• Enforcing standard alcohol sales hours for all venues.
• Preventing the sale of alcohol in residential buildings during late hours.
• Reducing the density of alcohol outlets in residential neighborhoods.

The introduction of these restrictions marks a significant shift in the alcohol trade landscape within the affected regions. Retailers and catering establishments are now required to adhere to stricter guidelines regarding the sale of spirits. The regulations are designed to create a more controlled environment for alcohol distribution.

By imposing these limits, regional authorities are attempting to align the operations of naliyka venues with those of standard retailers. This includes adhering to the same operating hours and sales restrictions. The goal is to eliminate the competitive advantage these venues had through night-time sales.

These changes are expected to have a lasting impact on drinking habits. By limiting availability, particularly at night, the regions hope to foster a culture of moderation. The long-term success of these measures will depend on consistent enforcement and public cooperation.