Microloans, vapes and marketplaces: how to change the life of Russians from October 1
From October 1, several new laws come into force in Russia that will affect millions of people: from shopping on marketplaces to microloans and tobacco at schools
For the first time in Russian law there is a full-fledged regulation of the platform economy – the relevant laws come into force on October 1. Now the law clearly defines how site operators and sellers interact, what requirements are imposed on goods cards and how discounts and prices are regulated. Chaotic price changes in cards and opaque rules for sellers are now under control. In addition, from October 1, liability will be introduced for both platforms and sellers.
From October 1, if you bought a defective item on the marketplace, you no longer need to look for a seller somewhere on the periphery and sue him directly. Now you can submit a claim directly through the site - the operator is obliged to ensure the technical possibility for this. For millions of shoppers, this is a real step towards making returns and exchanges easier.
From October 1, microfinance institutions will no longer be able to issue a third loan with a full value of more than 200% per annum if the borrower already has two outstanding loans on the same terms. This is a temporary measure – it is valid until April 1, 2027, after which the rules will become even stricter. Also, from October 1, the list of data transmitted to qualified credit bureaus will be expanded: creditors will receive more information about the real debt load of borrowers.
From October 1, the procedure for calculating the zone around educational institutions, within which the sale of tobacco and vapes is prohibited, is specified. The boundaries of this zone will be determined taking into account the results of public discussions. In addition, from October 1, licensing of retail and wholesale sale of tobacco and nicotine-containing products is introduced – now it is not just trade, but licensed activity with relevant requirements.
From October 1, the VAT rate of 10% for the import and sale of children's goods will be applied only in the presence of supporting documents. The goal is to improve the quality of products and remove from the market those products that do not meet the requirements of the law. In fact, without the necessary certificates, there will be no preferential rate.
From October 1, the tax authorities begin to send data on the income of migrants to the Ministry of Internal Affairs. From 1 January 2027, it will be possible to control whether foreigners are able to support themselves and their families at the level established in the region of residence. If income is not enough, the patent will not be granted or canceled.
From October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2028, an experiment will start in Russia: educational institutions will be able to make small purchases through marketplaces on a par with the usual electronic platforms for public procurement. The idea is to speed up and simplify the purchase of consumables, an office and other small goods for schools and kindergartens.
