Duties on imported beer from unfriendly countries will increase by one and a half times

In the first half of 2025, beer imports to Russia fell by almost half, to $72.1 million from $137.1 million a year earlier. The reason was the increased duties: since January, the rate for unfriendly countries has increased from 0.1 to 1 euro per liter. This changed the structure of supplies: China became the leader ($18 million, +50%), the Czech Republic came in second place ($10 million), and Germany came in third ($9 million, a 5.5-fold drop). Lithuania and Armenia are also in the top five, with exports increasing almost nine-fold to $5.15 million.

Starting from September 19, duties will be increased again: for beer up to 1.5 euros per liter, for cider — up to 30% of the customs value. At the same time, prices for Japanese, German and Czech beers will increase by an average of 75 rubles per 0.5 liters, while products from China and Vietnam are not subject to duties. According to experts, this will accelerate the reduction of the share of imported beer, which has already decreased from 4% to less than 3%, although some products may flow through Belarus and Kazakhstan, bypassing restrictions. Against the background of falling imports, Russian producers continue to strengthen their positions: in January–August 2025, the production of fermented beverages increased by 1.1% to 633.1 million dal, consolidating the key role of local breweries in the market.