The Croatian Government has approved amendments to the Law on Tobacco and Related Products to ban all flavorings in heated tobacco products and prohibit sales to minors. This decision targets the rising popularity of sweet-flavored vapes and nicotine pouches among school-aged children.
Croatia Closes Regulatory Loophole on Flavored Vapes
While Croatia previously banned flavored traditional cigarettes and rolling tobacco, heated tobacco products, vapes, and nicotine pouches remained exempt. This exemption created what local experts and the Children’s Ombudsperson described as a growing issue in schools, where students often did not realize they were smoking due to the masking effect of sweet and fruity aromas.
Health Ministry Imposes Strict Sales Restrictions
Health Minister Irena Hrstić confirmed the scope of the new measures. “Exemptions are being abolished, and aromas will no longer be allowed in heated tobacco products,” Hrstić stated. “These products will also be specially labelled, and the sale to anyone under the age of 18 will be banned.”
The legislation aligns Croatia with European Union regulations and introduces an updated definition of heated tobacco products to prevent future regulatory evasion. The bill will soon face a final vote in the Croatian Parliament.
Fines Updated for Public Vaping Violations
The updated law also adjusts penalties to reflect Croatia’s transition to the euro. Smoking and vaping remain prohibited in all public indoor spaces.
Individuals caught smoking or vaping in restricted public areas face a €130 fine. The same penalty applies to anyone smoking within 20 meters of the entrance to any healthcare or educational facility.
