Local authorities in several major European cities have decided to introduce new restrictions. This was reported by Zamin.uz.
According to this decision, from January 1, 2027, smoking and the use of electronic cigarettes will be strictly prohibited on the open terraces of cafes, bars, and restaurants. This ban applies not only to regular cigarettes but also to electronic cigarettes, vapes, and hookahs.
Under the new rules, the ban will also apply to smoking rooms in certain establishments, airports, or special cigarette clubs. Thus, it is planned to make general dining areas and public spaces completely free of tobacco products.
This municipal decision has been officially announced and included in the set of measures developed based on the recommendations of the European Commission. Restaurant and bar owners will be given approximately one and a half years to adapt to the new rules.
Additionally, starting from January 2027, smoking will be prohibited within a 10-meter radius of these establishments. If ashtrays are still provided to customers after the ban comes into effect, the owners of the establishments will be fined, and visitors who violate the rules may also be held accountable.
The document also notes that local authorities need to develop additional measures to restrict smoking during festivals, fairs, and public events. However, the association of restaurant and bar owners emphasizes that the new bans may lead to economic consequences.
According to them, the restrictions might not reduce the number of smokers but force them to smoke on the streets, causing inconvenience to the public and complicating the control for establishment staff. Earlier, the European Commission had proposed implementing this ban in 2026, but the deadline was postponed by one year to allow more time for preparation in the sector.
Thus, the new rules will come into effect from 2027 and will serve to clear public places of tobacco smoke.
