Croatia to ban all flavoured smoking products and sale to U-18s

The Croatian Government has approved significant amendments to the Law on Tobacco and Related Products, taking a firm stance against the rising use of flavoured smoking products among young people.

As 24sata reports, the proposed changes, which will soon be voted on in Parliament, introduce a complete ban on all aromas in heated tobacco products – a measure long advocated by health experts and the Children’s Ombudsperson.

While flavoured cigarettes and rolling tobacco were already prohibited, products such as vapes and nicotine pouches had remained exempt. That will no longer be the case.

Health Minister Irena Hrstić confirmed the new measures, stating: “Exemptions are being abolished, and aromas will no longer be allowed in heated tobacco products. These products will also be specially labelled, and the sale to anyone under the age of 18 will be banned.”

The new law is aligned with EU regulations and introduces a fresh definition of heated tobacco products. It aims to address growing concerns, particularly in schools, where sweet and fruity flavours have made smoking more appealing to minors.

According to the Children’s Ombudsperson, many youths do not even realise they are engaging in smoking, as the aromas mask the sensation and harm of tobacco use.

Stricter enforcement is also part of the reform. Fines have been updated to reflect Croatia’s switch to the euro.

Smoking, including vaping, is still prohibited in all public spaces, with penalties of €130 for violations. The same fine applies to those smoking within 20 metres of entrances to healthcare or educational facilities.

The new legislation marks a critical step in curbing youth smoking and vaping in Croatia, aligning national law with EU standards and addressing a growing public health issue.