Smoking in Cyprus
In Cyprus, smoking is legal but subject to a range of restrictions. Under these regulations, the sale and use of cigarettes are legal. Purchasing them online is permitted, while buying them from vending machines is not allowed. Importing cigarettes for trade is permitted with the appropriate lincense. However, all forms of advertising of tobacco products are banned. Health warnings on cigarette packaging are required, the minimum legal age for purchasing tobacco products is 18 years, and there are legal restrictions on smoking in public places. Cigarettes are subject to a total taxation rate of 74%, and an excise tax rate of 24%. Within this regulatory context, in 2024 Cyprus had around 357,000 current adult smokers, corresponding to an adult current smoking prevalence of 31.7%. This shows a slight decrease from 2022 when the current prevalence of smoking was 34%. Among adult males, the current prevalence of smoking was 45.4%, and among adult females it was 17.9% in 2024. The adult daily smoking prevalence was 25.8% in 2023. In terms of mortality, in 2021 tobacco smoking led to 1,169 deaths in the country, including 968 among males and 202 among females. This presents that overall, smoking accounted for 12.67% of all deaths in Cyprus in 2021—19.52% of male deaths and 4.73% of female deaths.
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January 20, 2026 by cyprus-mail.com
The war on snus
Cyprus' unclear regulations on nicotine pouches have created confusion. These pouches lack proper approval for sale, leading to legal issues and public health concerns. Despite potential harm reduction benefits, the inconsistency in regulating these products has left consumers and sellers in a precarious situation. The debate on nicotine pouches, also known as snus, highlights the need for comprehensive legislation to address their sale, composition, and taxation. Failure to establish clear guidelines risks impacting public health, revenue collection, and the prevalence of illicit sales. Addressing these issues through regulation rather than prohibition could provide a more effective solution.
October 27, 2025 by kathimerini.com.cy
Vaping reaches alarming levels among Cyprus teens
Cyprus teens are vaping heavily with 11% of 16-year-olds using e-cigarettes daily, marking one of Europe's highest rates. Cannabis remains the top illegal substance, while cocaine is on the rise, and offline gambling is popular. Alcohol use has slightly decreased, especially among boys, but binge drinking is up among girls. The survey also reveals that students find it easy to access cannabis and highlights the prevalence of hookah smoking. The study, conducted by the Cyprus Addiction Treatment Authority, KENTHEA, and the Ministry of Education, monitors youth behaviors since 1995, shedding light on evolving trends and concerns.