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In 2026, the per capita subsistence minimum in Russia will be 18,939 rubles (237 USD) per month (+6.8% compared to 2025), 20,644 - the working-age population, 16,288 - pensioners, 18,371 - children. Regions set their own subsistence minimums. It is the lowest total cost of food, goods, and services necessary for a person's life and health. In 2026, the minimum wage in Russia will be 27,093 rubles. From Jan to Nov 2025, alcohol sales in Russia (excluding beer, cider, perry, and mead) decreased by 9.8% year-on-year, amounting to 181.9M decaliters (12.5 liters per person). Vodka sales decreased from 68.2 to 66.3M (-3.5%). The low-alcohol beverage segment recorded a sharp decline: from 15.8 to 1.5M (-87.6%). Alcohol production volume fell by 6.7% to 158.5M. Until September 14, 2026, Chinese citizens have the right to enter Russia and stay for up to 30 days on a guest or business visit without a visa. In early September, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the introduction of a 30-day visa-free regime for Russian citizens. These measures are currently being implemented on a one-year trial basis. In Jan-Oct 2025, according to preliminary data from the Ministry of Finance, the Russian federal budget revenues totaled 29,924B rubles (+0.8%), non-oil and gas revenues - 22,425B (+11.3%), oil and gas revenues - 7,498B (-21.4%), primarily due to a decline in the average oil price. Expenditures - 34,113B (+15.4%). The deficit - 4,189B. In 2025, the deficit is expected to be 2.6% of GDP. In 2026, the average state-funded pension in Russia (65+ years old - men, 60+ - women) will be about 28,000 rubles (350 USD) per month. The average social pension (does not depend on the length of employment and accumulated contributions) - about 17,000 rubles (210 USD). Social pensions are granted 5 years after reaching the general retirement age. More notes from Russia »
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Ask expert about Russia
Claire asks: Hello, I would like to visit Tuva with my dog Ulaan and spend a month or two there. Is it possible to find an English-speaking guide (I am French) as my Russian is practically nonexistent? What would the budget be, and how would I get there given the difficulties between our two countries? Thank you in advance for any answers you can provide.
Expert's answer:
Unfortunately, I couldn't find any direct contacts for guides in Tuva that might be helpful. Try contacting the Siberian tour operator Sayan Ring; they might be able to help you.

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