Top Takeaways:
- In response to widespread underage access to tobacco, alcohol, and vaping products, Greece’s Health Ministry has introduced legislation mandating ID checks for all purchases of these items.
- The proposed law includes fines up to €10,000 and potential business closures for retailers who fail to verify buyers’ ages.
- The 2024 ESPAD survey revealed that 92% of Greek 16-year-olds find it easy to obtain alcohol, 77% can purchase e-cigarettes without checks, and 65% can buy traditional cigarettes.
In an effort to combat underage consumption of tobacco, alcohol, and vaping products, Greece’s Health Ministry has introduced a bill requiring mandatory ID checks for all purchases of the products.
The legislation, currently open for public consultation until June 16, aims to address the ease with which minors can access the products.
The proposed law stipulates that retailers must verify the age of all customers purchasing tobacco, alcohol, e-cigarettes, and cannabis-related items. Failure to comply could result in fines up to €10,000 (US$11,420) and potential closure of the business.
Additionally, minors would be prohibited from entering or working in bars and clubs, with exceptions only for private events under strict conditions.
To enhance enforcement, the bill proposes the creation of a digital registry for sellers and the establishment of a specialized unit within the National Public Health Organization (EODY) to monitor product circulation.
