According to Expats.cz, the Czech Republic will immediately ban the sale of seasoned heated tobacco products (HTP). A European directive requires EU member states to incorporate the ban into their legal framework and take effect on October 23rd. This directive does not allow the sale of existing inventory during a transitional period.


JT International spokesperson Jiri Sochor stated that slightly over half of HTP users prefer flavored tobacco. Sochor pointed out that according to the ban in the United States, some people have restored traditional combustible cigarettes.


Sohol stated that the ban will not take effect simultaneously in neighboring countries and pointed out that only Germany has implemented the ban. Therefore, people may purchase flavored products abroad.


Sochor stated that seasoning heated tobacco products generate approximately 2.9 billion CZK ($125.16 million) of consumer tax annually.


The company is responding to the HTP spice ban by launching new tobacco free products. For example, British American Tobacco has started selling heating rods for Louis Bosch tea containing nicotine. Some tobacco companies also oppose the ban, and due to complaints from Irish companies, the legislation will be tried by the European Court of Justice.