The Russian Tanners and Shoemakers’ Union (RSKO) has urged the Federation Council to prohibit certain terms used for leather materials, specifically eco-leather and ecomeh. The move aims to minimize consumer confusion and ensure clear labeling in the market. RSKO’s General Manager, Alexandra Andrunakievich, emphasized that terms such as eco-leather, vegan leather, and ecomeh can mislead buyers by implying a genuine leather origin or a standard of sustainability that may not apply to the product.
Andrunakievich noted that when RSCO presented its proposals to ban these terms, the Federal Antimonopoly Service (FAS) responded by explaining that the prefix eco does not denote ecological credentials but economic leather. The control body reportedly confirmed that such products are priced as budget options, which can misrepresent their true material nature. According to the union leader, the material in question is not skin-based, yet marketing terms may convey otherwise, potentially confusing consumers and altering perceived value in the market.
Senators have shown openness to RSCO’s suggestions and indicated they intend to review the proposals in the autumn session. The discussion arrives amid broader regulatory considerations on labeling practices and consumer information in the leather and fashion sectors. Government observers interpret the RSCO initiative as part of a wider effort to improve transparency and prevent misleading branding that could misrepresent product materials and origin.
Separately, the Russian government recently submitted a bill to the State Duma to broaden the scope of goods for which a reduced value-added tax applies to children, lowering VAT to as little as 10 percent at the point of sale. This legislative move reflects ongoing efforts to adjust tax treatment in consumer markets to support households and stimulate demand for family-oriented products.
In related news, the market has recently seen developments involving Realme leather smartphone sales in Russia, reflecting ongoing experimentation with alternative materials and branding in the electronics sector. These market dynamics illustrate the broader tension between marketing terms, material classification, and consumer expectations within contemporary retail in Russia and beyond.