Razvan Balaban, Philip Morris: what measures are necessary for the enforcement of laws protecting minors against tobacco consumption

Romania is among the top ten countries in the world regarding tobacco control regulation, according to statements by Răzvan Balaban, Senior Manager External Affairs at Philip Morris International. He emphasizes that the problem does not lie in the lack of laws protecting minors, but in their enforcement. Starting in 2024, retailers in stores can be fined between 5,000 and 10,000 lei for selling tobacco products to minors.

In a NewMoney Talks podcast moderated by editor-in-chief Constantin Rudnițchi, Balaban mentioned an agreement between the tobacco industry, major retailers, and ANPC for closer collaboration in enforcing the law. He also suggested that the icons on cigarette packs could be even more shocking, but they need to be scientifically supported, which requires a European directive.