Maxim Topilin, Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Economic Policy, recently discussed significant upcoming legislative changes in Russia, detailing various bills slated for consideration by the State Duma.
New Regulations for Online Marketplaces
A key initiative is the «platform economy» bill, set to regulate marketplace trade from October 1, 2026. Topilin highlighted that many aspects of online sales have developed organically, lacking a unified structure. The new law aims to standardize these processes.
Previously, product listings could contain various types of information. Moving forward, goods will require mandatory certificates, and sellers must provide personal identification data. Topilin assured that compliant sellers would find it easy to fulfill these requirements. Furthermore, a single register will be established for all marketplace platforms, encompassing not only online retail sites but also, for instance, ticket aggregators.
The deputy emphasized that the goal during the bill`s development was to «avoid over-regulation and harming anyone.» He added that the State Duma holds a positive view of marketplaces, recognizing their role in eliminating numerous intermediaries present in other forms of retail, allowing direct producers to reach consumers with ease.
Tightening Control over Tobacco Products
The discussion also covered new laws concerning tobacco products. Since 2024, tobacco has been subject to mandatory labeling. However, some manufacturers attempt to circumvent the system by providing fictitious production addresses. To combat this, beginning September 1 of this year, authorities will gain the power to revoke production licenses from such unscrupulous sellers. Topilin also expressed a strong desire for legislation in the next session to mandate licensing for all tobacco retail stores, stating that responsible industry representatives support such a measure.
Regulations for Energy Drinks
New laws regarding energy drinks were also mentioned. During the recent session, a law was passed requiring disclaimers in advertising materials to warn consumers about potential health risks. Future plans include mandatory health warnings on all energy drink packaging.
Warning Against Debt Resolution Services
Finally, Topilin addressed «debt fixers» – individuals or organizations that offer to resolve overdue bank debts for a fee. He strongly advised against using their services, encouraging those facing debt issues to instead seek free resolution options available to certain population groups or to directly contact their credit institutions. The deputy advocated for a ban on advertising such organizations or prohibiting their existence altogether.
