Russia raises alcohol taxes 11.4% starting in 2026

Russia will raise excise taxes on alcohol, alcoholic beverages and alcohol-containing products by 11.4% starting Jan. 1, 2026, a move that is likely to lift costs across the country’s wine, beer and spirits markets and could feed into consumer prices.

The change was set out in an amendment to Article 193 of Russia’s Tax Code, according to AK&M, a Russian business news service. The higher levy applies broadly to alcoholic products, including wine and beer, as well as alcohol-containing goods. The measure is part of a fiscal adjustment that comes as the government seeks more revenue from a sector that remains important for both domestic consumption and state finances.

Excise taxes are charged at the production stage and are often passed along through the supply chain. In practice, that means producers, importers, distributors and retailers may all face higher costs once the new rates take effect. For consumers, the impact could show up in higher shelf prices for everyday beer and table wine, as well as for premium spirits.

Russia is one of the world’s largest alcohol markets, with demand spread across mass-market beer, vodka and an expanding wine segment. Any tax increase in such a market can affect purchasing patterns, especially if wages and household budgets do not keep pace with price changes. Producers with thinner margins may be forced to absorb part of the increase, while others may pass it on more directly.

The excise hike also comes at a time when alcohol makers in Russia have been dealing with broader pressure from inflation, logistics costs and regulatory changes. For imported wines and spirits, the tax increase adds another layer of cost on top of currency swings and trade-related disruptions that have already complicated pricing and supply.

The government has not indicated that the measure is temporary. By setting the increase in law ahead of time, officials are giving companies a window to adjust contracts, inventories and pricing strategies before the new rates begin on Jan. 1.