President Vladimir Putin signed into law a series of anti-smoking measures that sets curbs on tobacco advertising, prices, sales and smoking in public areas to be implemented in stages beginning this June, Reuters reported.

Public smoking bans in subways and schools will take effect in June, with most other public areas included in subsequent phases. Kiosk sales of tobacco products will be banned from June of 2014. The law includes restrictions on tobacco product advertising and minimum prices for cigarettes that now cost the equivalent of less than USD 2 (EUR 1.52), Reuters reported. Russia is the second largest tobacco market behind China. (pi)