Clear communication with consumers has always been a cornerstone of consumer protection, but in Russia, it has now become a matter of language. As of 1 March 2026, businesses must ensure that consumer-facing information is not only accessible but explicitly provided in Russian.
On 1 March 2026, amendments to Russian consumer protection legislation entered into force, introducing new obligations regarding the language used in information provided to consumers. These changes were enacted by Federal Law No. 168-FZ of 24 June 2025, which added Article 10.1 to the Law of the Russian Federation “On Consumer Protection.”
Mandatory use of the Russian language
Under Article 10.1(1), manufacturers, service providers, and sellers are now required to ensure that all information intended for public awareness is provided in Russian. This marks a significant clarification and tightening of the existing consumer information standards.
The requirement applies broadly to any information made available to consumers in public contexts. The law explicitly lists several examples, including:
- signs and storefront signage
- information boards and notices
- structures, installations, and technical devices used to communicate information to consumers.
Use of foreign languages
While the use of foreign languages is not prohibited, it is strictly regulated. Foreign-language texts may only be used in addition to the Russian version. It is important to note that:
- the Russian text must not be omitted or replaced
- both of the Russian and foreign-language versions must be equivalent in meaning.
This effectively prevents businesses from relying solely on widely understood English terms or other foreign-language expressions in consumer materials.
Exception for trademarks and corporate names
An important exception applies to corporate names and registered trademarks. These designations may be used in the form in which they are officially registered, including in a foreign language, without a Russian equivalent.
This exception has practical significance. As a result, businesses may continue to display foreign-language brand names and trademarks without modification, provided they are duly registered.
Practical implications for businesses
In practice, the new rules primarily affect retailers and operators of commercial premises in Russia. These entities must review and, where necessary, update all public information to ensure compliance with the new language requirements.
Common English-language signs such as “Sale,” “Flowers,” “Jeans,” and “Burgers” can no longer be used on their own. Businesses must either:
- accompany such terms with Russian-language equivalents or
- replace them entirely with Russian-language wording.
At the same time, if such terms are registered as trademarks, they may fall within the statutory exception and continue to be used without translation.
Strategic considerations
The introduction of this exception may lead to the registration of commonly used commercial designations as trademarks. By securing trademark protection, businesses may rely on the exemption and avoid the obligation to translate certain signs or storefront elements into Russian.
The role of the Russian language significantly reinforced
The amendments introduced by Federal Law No. 168-FZ significantly reinforce the role of the Russian language in consumer communication. While the rules impose additional compliance obligations, the trademark exception provides a strategic pathway for businesses seeking to preserve foreign-language branding in the Russian market.
If you have any questions, please reach out to Annikki Hämäläinen.