Smoking will soon be banned in all public places in Greece, according to new regulations being prepared by the Health Ministry, sources have told Sunday’s Kathimerini. This might cause further decline in either smoking or cafe spending as combining this with the recent additional increase of 10% of excise taxes on fuel, cigarettes and alcohol may cause the Greek citizen to think again about leaving their home.
The start of July 2009 saw the introduction of a smoking ban in Greece. The ban was only partial at the beginning since it was implemented in completely closed areas but allowed many bars and restaurant outlets the choice of offering places of smoking. The introduction of this ban during the summer months also meant that Greek consumers could simply choose to sit outside.
According to the latest Eurobarometer, Southern Europe countries see the greatest proportion of smokers, specifically Greece, where the proportion of smokers exceeds 40%. Eurobarometer also reports that smoking at home is allowed by four in 10 EU citizens, with the most permissive member states being Greece.
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