The changes were backed by 77 MPs but voted against by one parliamentarian, with four abstaining in the vote. The Saeima worked on these amendments for a long time, starting in December 2022. In December last year, the viewing was postponed several times for legal clarification.
Until now, the law made tobacco products, herbal smoking products, electronic smoking devices and refill containers available for purchase from the age of 18. The age threshold for these products has now been raised to 20 years starting in 2025.
For selling tobacco products, tobacco substitute products, herbal smoking products, electronic smoking devices, or refill containers thereof to persons younger than 20 years of age, a fine will be imposed on the seller from 280 to 700 euros, while on a legal person – from 700 to 7,100 euros.
On the other hand, persons under 20 using these products will be subject to a warning or fine of up to EUR 15.
Amendments to the Law also provide for a prohibition on smoking in gambling establishments.
The amendments also prohibit the sale of liquids and tobacco substitute products containing flavorings of electronic smoking devices, except those that create the smell or taste of tobacco. These restrictions will enter into force on January 1, 2025. A restriction on the production and placing on the market of tobacco products and other smoking products that are visually reminiscent of sweets, snacks, and toys will also be in force.
