Despite the sanctions, Russian products were still going abroad. For example, some countries, including Israel and Germany, actively bought one of the most popular drinks among Russians.
By the end of 2022, Israel had become the largest importer of Russian vodka. According to Russian media, the country quadrupled its purchases of alcoholic beverages from $5.7 million to $24.7 million.
“Israel became the world leader in vodka imports from Russia last year, and has more than quadrupled this product in monetary terms, from $5.7 million a year ago to $24.7 million,” the article states.
The second line of this rating is occupied by Germany. The country reduced its vodka imports from Russia to $7.5 million. In 2021, Germany imported $43.4 million worth of products.
In third place was Armenia, which halved its purchase of Russian vodka from $13.2 million to $6.9 million.
Sanctions on Russian vodka
In March 2022, the United States imposed a ban on the import of Russian alcohol in the background of a full-scale invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Armed Forces. Prior to that, the United States imported beverages such as alcohol and vinegar from the Russian Federation for a total of $24.1 million annually.
At the same time, most of the Russian vodka is produced abroad. For example, Latvia produces Stoli – this is how the Stolichnaya vodka brand became known after the rebranding carried out by the owners of the company after the invasion of Russian troops in Ukraine.
Meanwhile, it was learned the other day that Pernod Ricard has resumed the sale of the famous Jameson Irish whiskey to the Russian market. The delivery of Pernod Ricard brands to the Russian market is suspended due to the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russian troops. Various Jameson products are now available at the popular liquor store in Moscow
Meanwhile, Rosalkogolregulirovanie previously stated that in 2022, the most popular drink in Russia is vodka. Vodka occupied 75% of the strong alcohol market, its production increased by 4% compared to 2021. In addition, the production of tinctures, gin and rum in Russia increased by 42%.
Proekt, another Russian opposition media outlet, learned how Russian President Vladimir Putin monetized the sale of Putinka vodka through Cyprus offshore Ermira Consultants.
Source: Focus
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