Albania

The definition of “smoking” includes the use of e-cigarettes. Therefore, the ban on smoking in indoor public places, workplaces, and public transport includes the use of e-cigarettes.  However, there is an exemption which allows smoking in mental health institutions (for patients only.)  Due to this one exemption, the regulatory status code "Some Restrictions" is given.

Advertising and promotion of e-cigarettes is banned with minor exceptions.  Tobacco advertising and promotion through toys, candy, and reverse brand stretching is allowed.  Due to these exceptions, the regulatory status code "Some Restrictions" is given.

The law prohibits e-cigarette sponsorship of media, radio and television programs, as well as events, activities, and individuals. However, the prohibition explicitly excludes sponsorship that “is for other beneficial purposes, including investments, which do not constitute advertising of tobacco products.” This exemption is interpreted to allow contributions to corporate social responsibility activities and youth tobacco use prevention programs. Therefore, the regulatory status code "Some Restrictions" is given.  

The law prohibits the sale of e-cigarettes through “self-service.” Therefore, e-cigarettes cannot be placed on shelves available to the consumer. In addition, the law prohibits e-cigarette advertising “including . . . promotion through the display of products that imitate external packaging.” Taken together, these provisions are interpreted as prohibiting point of sale product display.

The law prohibits the sale of e-cigarettes through the postal service. In addition, the law bans advertising of e-cigarettes through information society services. The sale of e-cigarettes via the internet constitutes advertising through information society services, and such sales entail delivery through the postal service. Therefore, these provisions prohibit internet sales of e-cigarettes.

The law does not address the use of flavors in e-cigarettes. Therefore, the law is interpreted as allowing the use of flavors in e-cigarettes.

The law does not address the use of additives in e-cigarettes. Therefore, the law is interpreted as allowing additives in e-cigarettes.

The law requires e-cigarette packaging to carry warnings intended for specific risk groups, as well as warnings regarding potential side effects, contraindications for use, and the level of addictiveness and toxicity.

The law requires e-cigarette packaging to carry a statement that the product is not recommended for use by young people and non-smokers. 

The maximum allowable nicotine concentration is 20 mg/ml.

Refill liquid must be in dedicated containers with a maximum volume of 10ml. Disposable e-cigarettes may have a maximum volume of 2ml.

Manufacturers and importers of e-cigarettes are required to notify the Ministry of Health regarding products circulating in the domestic market as of the date of entry into force of Law 9636 as well as any new products launched. This notification must include a list of ingredients used in the manufacture of the product and their quantities.

The sale of e-cigarettes is banned in health institutions, educational institutions, and by street vendors.

The sale of e-cigarettes by vending machine is prohibited.