Tatarstan Prime Minister: The sale of surrogate alcohol cannot be allowed, no excise-duty can be above health

On January 22, speaking at a meeting of regional State Alcohol Inspectorate Tatarstan Prime Minister Ildar Khalikov said that the sales of legal alcohol products decreased by four per cent, while that of vodka – by one per cent in Tatarstan.

According to him, the results of work done in 2015 in the sphere of legal sales of alcohol products show some improved dynamics over the past five years. He added that the sales of vodka in the second half of the year amounted to 104 per cent and about 109 per cent in the fourth quarter. "It is necessary to introduce a single evaluation indicator showing the work of the ministries, departments, municipalities in all areas of the industry," Khalikov said.

Tatarstan Prime Minister complained that in 2015 there were no changes to the legislation of the Russian Federation which would substantially strengthen criminal and administrative penalties in the field of illegal trafficking of alcohol and alcohol-containing products. "We hope for the support of the Russian Federation, more close work between the Tatarstan Government and State Duma deputies. Otherwise, all the work of law enforcement agencies would be directed only to the withdrawal of illegal alcohol. These preventive measures are not what is needed for violators, criminals who make money in this business. They have to be put in prison. The penalty amounting to 5,000 roubles, which is paid off in the first three days is not a punishment, much stricter measures are required. In most countries there are long prison sentences and more severe sanctions for this type of crime,” he said.

Speaking about Tatspirtprom (manufacturer of alcoholic beverages in the republic) Khalikov noted that the company has a fairly good performance over the past year. In particular, Tatspirtprom has become the largest manufacturer of alcoholic beverages in Russia, the total output of which was exceeded by 20 per cent, including that of vodka - by 24 per cent last year.

Khalikov emphasized that Tatarstan is not aiming to increase the sales of vodka. "The less Tatarstan citizens will drink it, the better. But the sale of surrogate alcohol cannot be allowed, no excise-duty can be above the health. The results of 2015 show that intensifying the methods of struggle by law enforcement agencies, state authorities in this area has produced positive results," he said.