From September 1, it will be illegal for off-trade outlets like kiosks and supermarkets to sell vodka between 10pm and 10am.

According to an article in British newspaper the Telegraph, the move will replace the current rules whereby permit holders can sell vodka around the clock but others can’t sell vodka between 11pm and 8am.

The move follows President Dmitry Medvedev’s declaration that Russia’s drinking problem is a ‘national disaster’.

In January, the country placed a minimum price on vodka. The cheapest bottle on sale is now 89 roubles ($3;£1.80) for half a litre.

A study published by general medical journal The Lancet, in June 2009, reported that alcohol addiction accounted for more than half of all deaths among 15 to 54 year old Russians, during specific years.

You can read more on that report here