Vodka prices in Russia soar 15%—yet sales keep climbing
Vodka prices in Russia have surged faster than any other product tracked by the state statistics agency, Rosstat. The sharp increase comes as excise taxes on alcohol rise, pushing up costs for consumers. Yet despite the higher prices, sales of the spirit have continued to climb. The minimum retail price for a half-litre bottle of vodka now stands at 409 rubles, following a 17% increase. This hike is largely due to a rise in excise taxes, which jumped from 740 to 824 rubles per litre of pure ethyl alcohol at the start of the year.
By April 2026, the average cost of a litre of vodka reached 967.32 rubles—a 15.2% rise compared to the same month in 2025. Since January, prices have climbed by 12.2%, making vodka the fastest-growing category in annual price inflation. Despite the steep increases, Russians are buying more of it. Retail sales grew by nearly 3% in April alone. Many consumers are switching to vodka as it remains cheaper than other hard liquors, even after the price jumps.
The trend reflects a broader shift toward cost-saving habits among Russian shoppers. With excise taxes driving prices up, vodka remains a more affordable option than alternatives. Sales figures suggest demand is staying strong despite the rising costs.
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