Russians are probably buying counterfeits.
They have sharply reduced their purchases of cognac and vodka, writes Vedomosti newspaper.
According to Rosstat data, quoted by the newspaper, sales of vodka decreased by 16.4% during the year, and of cognac – by 20.3%.
Such a noticeable decrease is probably due to the shadow market, experts of the publication admit. Since many foreign brands left Russia after the start of the war, fake alcohol products from shadow manufacturers can be purchased in stores.
Another reason is the decrease in the income of the population, especially the middle class. So people start buying cheaper drinks. Counterfeit products are not counted in the statistics.
Earlier, the Ministry of Industry and Trade noted that while there is a moratorium in Russia, restrictions on inspections of shops selling alcohol, the state cannot fully identify and stop the sale of counterfeit products.
Photo by Kelly : https://www.pexels.com/photo/assorted-alcoholic-drinks-2796105/
