Germany's Drug Commissioner Calls for Restrictions on Cigarette Sales

Regulations by 2FIRSTS.ai

Sep.06.2024

Germany's Drug Commissioner Calls for Restrictions on Cigarette Sales

German Federal Drug Commissioner Burkhard Blienert suggests limiting cigarette sales to licensed specialty shops to reduce smoking rates.

According to Aerztezeitung's report on September 5th, Burkhard Blienert, the Federal Government's drug commissioner in Germany, believes that selling cigarettes 24 hours a day at convenience stores and gas stations is a mistake.

The lawmaker stated in an interview that

As the only country in the world, we still have 300,000 cigarette vending machines.

He suggested that in order to limit smoking, cigarettes should be sold in licensed specialty shops in the future. He mentioned that similar measures have already been implemented in Sweden or Austria.

The reason for Brina's decision is that Germany has a relatively high smoking rate compared to other European countries. According to the 2024 mid-term Debra study (German Smoking Behavior Survey), the smoking rate among adults is 30%, while the smoking rate among 14 to 17 year olds is 15%.

In addition, Bruniard also hopes to restrict cigarette advertising. Currently, cigarettes can still be promoted outside convenience stores or at events.

The ban will help significantly reduce the smoking rate.

He added that the league agreement also included a provision banning tobacco industry sponsorship in events.

References:

[1] Drogenbeauftragter: Spezialgeschäfte für Zigaretten sollen Raucherquote senken

Also Read:

[1] Police Raid Uncovers Massive Cash and Tax Evasion in Dortmund

[2] German Authorities Bust Illegal Tobacco and E-cigarette Ring in Operation

[3] Illegal E-cigarette Sales in Germany: Growing Concern

[4] Philip Morris International (PMI) Invests $600 Million in Colorado

[5] The Danger of Lithium Batteries: Preventing Fires in Germany

[6] Proper Disposal Guidelines for E-cigarettes and Disposable Products

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