Russia imposes taxes on smokers, decreases number

The Russian Health Ministry wants to reduce the number of smokers in the country to 5% of the population by 2050, local media reported.

In 2016, 40 million Russians, or 40% of the population, are smokers.

Cigarettes are currently cheaper in Russia than in other European countries.

According to a ministry document cited by local media, Moscow plans to achieve the reduction by imposing higher taxes.

The document did not show how much cigarettes would cost in the future.

The Health Ministry argues that a lower percentage of smokers will ease the burden on the health care system and increase life expectancy.