Russia delays utility tariff hikes until October 2026 with regional caps

Russia has announced changes to utility tariff adjustments for 2026. The government initially planned to index tariffs in July but has now revised the timeline. New rules will take effect from October 1, with regional variations in the allowed increases. In late November 2025, Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin signed a resolution setting the maximum tariff increases for the coming year. From January 1, 2026, the nationwide cap was fixed at an average of 1.7%. However, the Federal Antimonopoly Service (FAS) later clarified that no indexing would occur on July 1 as previously scheduled.

The annual review of utility tariffs will now start on October 1. Adjustments must stay within the government’s limits, which will differ by region. The FAS will monitor the process and remove any unjustified costs from the tariffs if violations are found. The new system introduces regional flexibility in tariff adjustments. The FAS will enforce compliance and exclude improper charges. Utility tariffs will now follow the updated schedule and caps set for 2026.