Russia’s citizens are drinking more alcohol. Figures released yesterday show a climb in retail sales of beer and alcoholic beverages. In a statement released by Russia’s National Alcohol Association yesterday, 106.6m decalitres of pure alcohol equivalent were sold between January and October, a rise of 4% year-on-year.


Vodka and strong liquor sales rose by 2.3% to 174.7m decalitres (69.8m decalitres in pure alcohol), while brandy retail sales also rose, by 12.2% to 4.6m decalitres (1.9m decalitres). Wine retail sales increased to 55.6m decalitres (8m decalitres), a climb of 9.4% on the year, and sparkling wine sales rose by 5.3% to 13.5m decalitres (1.5m decalitres).


Russia’s beer sales were up by 6.3% year-on-year to 651.1m decalitres (25.4m decalitres).