On September 1, 2010, the Russian government banned the sale of vodka and other alcoholic spirits during night time as part of its drive to reduce crime and diseases related with vodka.
The vodka ban is part of President 4fba1474d93c8’s series of strict measures to decrease alcoholic abuse and to fight the declining population in the country. Medvedev believed that alcoholism is a “national disaster” that weakens public health and prevents economic development.
According to Moscow City’s City Hall’s retail department, the ban of retail sales of vodka and other alcoholc drinks took effect on September 1, 2010 and between 10 p.m. and 10 a.m., covering alcoholic products with 15% alcohol content. Restaurant and bars will not be affected with the ban.
The move brings Moscow in line with other Russian regions which aimed to mitigate alcoholic abuse, youth crime and drinking.
Meanwhile, in conjunction with the drive to curb alcohol-related deaths and alcohol consumption, the government also tripled the excise duty on beer and unveiled minimum prices for vodka.
