Greek authorities introduced a comprehensive new framework aimed at protecting minors from access to tobacco and alcohol, combining digital tools, stricter controls and harsher penalties.
The Ministries of Digital Governance, Health and Citizen Protection presented the “Roadmap and Operational Plan for the Universal Enforcement of the Ban on Sales of Tobacco and Alcohol to Minors,” outlining a coordinated strategy that integrated legislation, technology and intensified inspections.
Officials said the initiative addressed longstanding enforcement gaps, despite existing laws. Rising use of nicotine and alcohol among minors, along with new products such as heated and alternative nicotine devices, made a stricter and more modern approach necessary. Authorities also highlighted serious health risks, particularly to the central nervous system.
The framework focused on prevention, stronger market oversight, regulation of new nicotine products, a digital inspection registry, and tougher enforcement and penalties.
Authorities classified the sale, supply or distribution of tobacco and alcohol to minors as a criminal offence, punishable by up to three years in prison and financial penalties.
A key element introduced a fully digital age verification system through the Gov.gr Wallet and Kids Walletapplications. Retailers generated a QR code for age checks, and customers scanned it to confirm eligibility, with a green or red indication displayed without revealing exact age.
Authorities also mandated a digital registry for all retail outlets, banned sales via vending machines, expanded police enforcement powers, and introduced personal accountability for sellers.
They also prohibited minors from entering bars and nightclubs, allowing exceptions only for private events declared in advance via the events.gov.gr platform under strict conditions.
Digital Governance Minister Dimitris Papastergiou said the system delivered practical solutions through coordination and technology, while Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis stressed that the new tools ensured effective enforcement and removed any excuse for violations.
greekcitytimes.com.
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