Key Laws Coming Into Force in June
Several new laws and regulations related to the internet and digital technologies are coming into effect in June. These changes will impact tobacco and vape product tracking, beer sales, tourism routes, software certification, pension notifications, and export controls on unmanned marine vessels.
Digital Labeling for Cigarettes and Vapes
Starting June 1, the tobacco industry is moving to a “digital excise” system, as amended in the Tax Code. Special tracking and control labels with unique QR codes will be used to mark tobacco and nicotine-containing products. These labels are designed to prevent counterfeiting and reuse.
Additionally, when calculating the excise tax base for tobacco and nicotine products, priority will be given to data from the digital monitoring system (GIS MT). If the tax base reported by the taxpayer is less than the volume of goods sold according to GIS MT, the tax base will be determined based on the system’s data.
Beer and Low-Alcohol Drink Sales Reporting
From June 1, the digital labeling system for beer and low-alcohol beverages will be fully operational. Sellers must report the sale of every bottle or can to a unified information system. This measure aims to combat illegal products.
Control Over Tourist Routes
The government will define the types and difficulty categories of tourist routes that require accompaniment by a certified guide-instructor. Regional authorities can establish such routes in their territories. Guides will be required to notify regional executive authorities before and after accompanying tourists on these routes.
Notification can be submitted on the official website of the Ministry or the local office of the Ministry of Emergency Situations (EMERCOM), by mail with delivery confirmation, or in person at the local EMERCOM office.
New Certification Rules for Software Development
As of June 1, new rules for certifying secure software development processes for information security tools come into effect. Currently, developers must certify each new product release by sending it to an accredited FSTEC laboratory for compliance checks, a process that typically takes three to six months.
Updates on Pension Notifications
The Social Fund has updated the procedure for notifying Russian citizens about the assignment of social and insurance pensions. The new order, effective June 3, requires that notification letters include information about the type of pension, the conditions under which it was granted, the payment period, and the amount. These notifications can be sent via the “Gosuslugi” portal, by mail, or by email.
Export Control on Unmanned Marine Vessels
Starting June 14, the government has updated the list of dual-use goods and technologies subject to export control, which can be used in the creation of weapons and military equipment. The list now includes wireless remotely operated and autonomous unmanned marine vessels and underwater vehicles.