In response to Russia’s invasion of the Ukraine, the European Union took a radical step that led to the disappearance of Russian vodka, a symbol of local culture, from European shelves. Three years on, these restrictions are still in force : what are the consequences of this decision for Vladimir Putin’s country ?
The ban, imposed as part of the European Union’s sanctions, reflects the continent’s determination to reinforce Russia’s economic isolation.
The impact of the ban on travelers and the Russian market
The movement began as a simple boycott in German supermarkets in 2022, when chains such as Rewe and Aldi removed Russian vodka from their shelves. However, this popular momentum quickly turned into formal legislation adopted by the EU in April 2022. The ban includes not only the commercial import of Russian vodka, but also the purchase or transport of this spirit on a personal basis within the continent. This uniform policy applies in all 27 EU member states, ensuring that Russian vodka is systematically excluded from the European market.
European customs authorities, notably in Estonia, have stepped up border controls to seize any bottles of Russian vodka found in travelers’ luggage. Since the strict application of this ban began in July 2022, European citizens have faced severe penalties for attempting to transport Russian vodka.
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Read also > Luxury in Russia : a subtle presence despite sanctions
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