What is Russian Honesty Label

The ‘Honesty Label’ is a nationwide product traceability system based on digital codes (Data Matrix or QR codes)

Its core principle is:

One product, one code: Each specific commodity circulating within Russia (such as a bottle of mineral water, a box of medicine, a pair of shoes) is assigned a unique encrypted digital code.
Full process tracking: This code will record the entire circulation process of goods from production, import, wholesale, transportation to retail.
Consumer verification: Consumers can scan the code on the product using the official designated mobile app (named “Честный ∝НАК”, meaning “honest mark”), immediately verify the authenticity of the product, and view its source information.

Main purpose

Cracking down on counterfeiting and shoddy goods: This is the fundamental goal, which is to make counterfeit goods nowhere to hide through technological means.
Protecting consumer rights: ensuring that consumers purchase safe and qualified genuine products.
Increase tax revenue: Transparent supply chain, reduce grey market and tax evasion behavior.
Traceability of problematic products: In case of quality issues or safety accidents, the problematic batch of products can be quickly and accurately recalled.

Which products require this label?

The system is gradually implemented in stages and categories. At present, the categories of products that are required to use the “honesty label” include:
Tobacco products (here is including e-cigarettes or vapes) Detailed report: Russian: From March 2026, Vape And Cigarette Sales Need License
Footwear
Medicine
Perfume
Tire
Fur products
Dairy products
Bottled water
Bicycles and motorcycles
Clothing (light industrial products)
Wait for more than 20 product categories.
The government plans to include more categories of goods in the system in the future.

What does it mean for consumers?

As a consumer, you will see an additional Data Matrix QR code on the product packaging (which looks like a denser QR code).
Verification method: Download the official app “Честный ∝НАК” and scan the code.
Scan result:
Green check mark: The product is genuine and the information is correct.
Red exclamation mark: The product may be counterfeit or have been scanned multiple times (suspected counterfeit), and the system will prompt you to report it.
You can also see basic information such as the production date, manufacturer, importer, etc. of the product.

What does it mean for businesses?

For manufacturers and retailers, this is a mandatory legal requirement. They must:

1. Register in the ‘Honesty Label‘ system.
2. Apply a unique code for each product.
3. Print or label the code on the goods during production and import processes.
4. Scan codes at every stage of logistics (inbound and outbound) to update the status of goods in the system.
5. Bear the related expenses.

Enterprises that do not comply with regulations will face high fines or even suspend operations.