Russia to Hike Alcohol Taxes, Up Regulation to Prevent Abuse

The Russian government plans to increase taxes on beer by 300 percent and ban sales in kiosks, the Guardian reported Oct. 1.

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has called alcoholism a “national disaster,” and the proposals by the Russian industry and trade ministry are part of a plan to address the problem. An estimated half-million annual deaths in Russia are attributed to alcohol use.

Vodka is Russia's national drink, accounting for up to two-thirds of all alcohol sales. Beer is increasingly popular, but many Russians also are ignorant of its alcoholic potency.

Sixty-five percent of Russians polled said they would or probably would support a government anti-alcohol campaign.