The St. Petersburg parliament is urging Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin to establish minimum font sizes and line spacing requirements on price tags to protect consumers from misleading practices. The appeal, supported by the social policy commission, addresses complaints from residents about retailers using small print to obscure crucial information, particularly regarding promotional offers.

The initiative stems from concerns that vulnerable individuals, such as pensioners and those with impaired vision, are particularly susceptible to being misled by the current lack of regulations. According to Deputy Alexander Rzhanenkov’s office, stores often exploit the absence of specific font requirements, presenting important details about promotions in minuscule print.

The deputies highlight that promotional items are frequently the source of confusion, with the price for purchasing multiple items or using a discount card displayed prominently, while the standard price is written in smaller print. This discrepancy often leads to elderly individuals facing unexpected costs at the checkout, resulting in embarrassment and financial strain.

The appeal will be submitted to Mishustin after receiving approval from other relevant commissions within the St. Petersburg parliament. The proposed regulations aim to ensure transparency and prevent retailers from taking advantage of consumers through deceptive pricing displays.