Starting 1 March 2026, Russia will require all consumer-facing text — from shop signs to product descriptions — to be presented in Russian. The requirement applies broadly, covering physical signage marketing materials, product labels, app menus, websites, and even names of residential developments.
Key Requirements
Mandatory Russian Language Use:
- All public-facing information must appear in Russian. This includes signage, notices, wayfinding, service descriptions, product features, promotional terms, and more.
- Foreign-language terms (e.g. sale, menu, open) can only be used if accompanied by an equivalent Russian translation displayed in the same font, size, and placement.
Trademarks & IP Exceptions:
- Registered trademarks, service marks, and company names in foreign languages may continue to be used without translation.
- Commercial signs not protected as registered IP must comply with the Russian-language requirement.
- Elements disclaimed in a trademark (e.g. generic descriptors) may appear in foreign language, but compliance will depend on enforcement practice.
Enforcement & Penalties for Legal Entities
While the law itself does not set specify fines, existing legislation on consumer protection and advertising will likely be used for enforcement:
What to Do Now
Audit Existing Communications:
- Review signage, websites, apps, product labels, and social media for foreign-language text.
- Identify items not registered as trademarks and not already translated.
Prepare for Transition:
- Replace or update signs with Russian equivalents.
- For foreign words you wish to preserve, consider registering them as trademarks (process takes 7–9 months).