A newly proposed bill would require sellers to display the price of goods per kilogram or per liter directly on price tags. This initiative, discussed in depth in a statement from RIA Novosti, is being advanced by a deputy chair of the State Duma from the Liberal Democratic Party who argues the change would greatly improve transparency for consumers.
The proponent explains that the aim is to provide clear information about the cost of goods in a standard unit of measurement, making price comparisons straightforward and reducing opportunities for misrepresentation. The proposal envisions a uniform practice where each item shows the price for a kilogram, a liter, or another generally accepted unit beside the total price. Supporters see it as a simple rule that helps consumers evaluate value at the point of sale and discourages deceptive pricing practices that can erode trust.
In recent years observers have noted a pattern in certain market segments where the perceived value of products can be affected by changes in packaging or labeling. Cited examples include shifts in bottle contents for dairy and beverages, and reductions in the stated weight of staple goods over time. The concern is that while the overall price may look stable, the amount of product delivered in each package can be trimmed, effectively increasing the price per unit without a corresponding drop in total cost to the consumer. This trend has prompted calls for greater clarity on price per unit as a protective measure for buyers and a way to curb perceived unfair practices.
The deputy argues that when such changes occur without accompanying price per unit information, a portion of buyers ends up bearing the brunt of the impact. He contends that the current system does not always provide a precise signal about how much product is being offered for the same money, which can mislead pricing decisions. By mandating a unit price on every item, the legislative framework would ensure that cost per quantity is visible at the first glance and would create a standard that manufacturers and retailers would be obliged to follow. This change, he suggests, would reduce room for ambiguity and help consumers make informed choices from the checkout line to the cart.
Previously, a related effort emerged in Saint Petersburg where lawmakers considered obligating large food retailers to disclose the price per kilogram or per liter on price tags. The impetus for that proposal came from a member of the United Russia party who highlighted recent reductions in product volume for several common items and argued that clear unit pricing would prevent hidden price shifts. The current proposal draws on that experience and expands the focus to a national level, aiming to establish consistent pricing information across the wider market for both households and small businesses that buy in bulk or routinely compare similar products.
Supporters emphasize that the policy is designed to be straightforward and practical rather than punitive. The goal is to give consumers reliable data so they can compare options with confidence, whether they are shopping for food, household goods, or other everyday necessities. Retailers would need to adapt their labeling to include the unit price in a consistent position on price tags, ensuring legibility and minimizing confusion at the moment of purchase. Proponents believe the change could foster healthier competition among brands and suppliers as pricing clarity becomes a baseline expectation for shoppers. This alignment with transparent practices is viewed as beneficial for the overall market health and for consumer trust in retail networks. The conversation continues as lawmakers weigh potential impacts on business operations, supply chains, and consumer decision making, with ongoing consultations and reviews anticipated in the near term. (Citation: RIA Novosti).