During the meeting, Viktor Zubkov reviewed the 2012 work programme of the Expert Council of the Federal Service for Alcohol Market Regulation (Rosalkogolregulirovanie), heard proposals of Expert Council members on a wide range of issues regarding state regulation of the alcohol market.

The meeting was attended by the following Expert Council members: member of the Russian Academy of Agricultural Sciences (RASKhN) Lev Oganesyants, RASKhN member Viktor Polyakov, State Duma Deputy Viktor Zvagelsky, representatives of business associations V. Filatov and Kayrat Zhangozin, as well as Rosspirtprom board member Sergei Timofeyev. Viktor Zubkov thanked those present for their active participation in the Expert Council of the Federal Service for Alcohol Market Regulation and said that "the continuation of the ongoing work of the Public Council and the Expert Council will contribute to further development of the industry."

During the meeting, all participants noted that, according to the figures for 2011, for the first time in modern Russian history the alcohol market is showing resilient positive trends. "Our common goal is to consolidate and strengthen them this year," said Viktor Zubkov.

Expert Council members made specific proposals on improving the quality and safety of alcoholic production, with special attention paid to problems related to fruit and berry wine-making, updating the standards for alcohol production technologies and improving customs and excise policies.

"I am convinced that the state and market players must clearly understand each other's positions and participate in an ongoing dialogue," Mr Zubkov said.

The Expert Council of the Federal Service for Alcohol Market Regulation plans to hold monthly meetings in 2012.