In May 2016, Greece banned some characterizing flavoured tobacco products, such as flavoured cigarettes. However, this was not a complete ban on all tobacco products with a characterizing flavour. Heated tobacco products with characterizing flavours were not affected by this legislation.
Based on the law, heated tobacco products with characterizing flavour, will be banned as per October 23rd , 2023. Products with characterizing flavour are those with any clearly noticeable smell or taste other than one of tobacco, and is noticeable before or during the consumption of the tobacco product.
When Is Heated Tobacco with a Characterizing Flavour Banned in Greece?
On the 23rd October 2023, many countries in the EU will implement a ban on characterizing flavoured heated tobacco. Those that don’t will implement the legislation at a later date. The ban will take effect across the European Union and Northern Ireland.
Purchasing Heated Tobacco with a Characterizing Flavour Outside of Greece
For adult users planning to travel, it is possible to purchase characterizing flavoured heated tobacco outside of Greece, so long as the product is permitted for sale in that country. The EU characterizing flavour ban does not prohibit the use of heated tobacco with a characterizing flavour in Greece - only the sale of these products. Regardless, adult users should check local regulations before using a characterizing flavoured heated tobacco product. They should also contact their airline or train company before travelling with the product. Transport companies could have individual rules about the transportation of heated tobacco.
Heated tobacco products without characterizing flavours should still be available. The EU motion will not completely ban heated tobacco in Greece*. Follow the link to learn more about heated tobacco and discover the variety of products that have a tobacco flavour.
Heated tobacco products are not risk-free and provide nicotine, which is addictive. Smoke-free products are not alternatives to quitting and are not designed as cessation aids. The best decision for any adult smoker is to quit tobacco and nicotine consumption altogether.
* Information correct at time of publication.
