Albania

“Smoking” is prohibited in public places, workplaces, and public transport. The definition of “smoking” includes the use of HTP. Therefore, use of HTP is prohibited in public places, workplaces and public transport. However, there is an exemption which allows smoking in mental health institutions (for patients only). Due to this one exemption, the regulatory status code “Smoking is Restricted” is given.

Tobacco advertising and promotion is banned with minor exceptions.  Tobacco advertising and promotion through toys, candy, and reverse brand stretching is allowed. The prohibition on tobacco advertising and promotion further extends to “all products defined in [Law 9636],” which includes HTP.  Accordingly, most forms of advertising and promotion of HTP are banned.  Due to the minor exceptions, however, the regulatory status code "Some Restrictions" is given. 

The prohibition on tobacco advertising extends to “all products defined in [Law 9636].” It is unclear if the definition of HTP applies to tobacco inserts only, or to the device as well. Therefore, it is unclear if advertising and promotion of HTP devices is prohibited. 

The restrictions on tobacco sponsorship extends to “all products defined in [Law 9636],” which includes HTP.  Therefore, sponsorship of events, activities and individuals is prohibited, but sponsorship of organizations may not be. The ban also does not cover sponsorship that promotes a tobacco manufacturer, but not a specific product. In addition, 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.

The restrictions on tobacco sponsorship extends to “all products defined in [Law 9636].” It is unclear if the definition of HTP applies to HTP tobacco inserts only, or to the device as well. Therefore, it is unclear if HTP device sponsorship is regulated in any way.

The law prohibits the sale of tobacco products (which includes HTP) through “self-service.” Therefore, HTP inserts cannot be placed on shelves available to the consumer. In addition, the law prohibits tobacco 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 of HTP inserts.

The law prohibits the sale of tobacco products through “self-service.”  In addition, the law prohibits tobacco advertising “including . . . promotion through the display of products that imitate external packaging.” However, it is unclear if the definition of HTP applies to HTP tobacco inserts only, or to the device as well. Therefore, it is unclear if display of HTP devices is prohibited.

The law prohibits the sale of tobacco products (which includes HTP) through the postal service. In addition, the law bans tobacco advertising through information society services (e.g., internet). Therefore, the sale of HTP inserts via the internet constitutes tobacco advertising. Such sales entail delivery through the postal service. Therefore, these provisions prohibit HTP insert internet sales.

The law prohibits the sale of tobacco products through the postal service. In addition, the law bans tobacco advertising through information society services (e.g. internet). However, it is unclear if the definition of HTP applies to HTP tobacco inserts only, or to the device as well. Therefore, it is unclear if the sale of HTP devices via the internet is prohibited.

The law prohibits vending machine sales of tobacco products, which includes HTP. 

The law prohibits vending machine sales of tobacco products, which includes HTP. However, it is unclear if the definition of HTP applies to HTP tobacco inserts only, or to the device as well. Therefore, it is unclear if the sale of HTP devices by vending machine is prohibited.

Tobacco products (which includes HTPs) with a characteristic flavor are prohibited.

The law does not regulate ingredients other than flavors.

The law requires HTP packaging to carry a text warning (“This tobacco product damages health and causes addiction”) that occupies 30% of the two largest surfaces of the package.

The law requires HTP packaging to carry a text warning (“This tobacco product damages health and causes addiction”) that occupies 30% of the two largest surfaces of the package. However, it is unclear if the definition of HTP applies to HTP tobacco inserts only, or to the device as well. Therefore, it is unclear if HTP devices must carry a health warning.

There is a prohibition of the use on tobacco product packaging (including HTP packaging) of “terms such as 'low tar content', 'light', 'ultra light', 'mild', or other similar expressions, terms, and signs, images, drawings, or elements that may mislead consumers into believing that the product is less harmful to health than other tobacco products.”

There is a prohibition of the use on tobacco product packaging (including HTP packaging) of "terms such as 'low tar content', 'light', 'ultra light', 'mild', or other similar expressions, terms, and signs, images, drawings, or elements that may mislead consumers into believing that the product is less harmful to health than other tobacco products." However, it is unclear if the definition of HTP applies to HTP tobacco inserts only, or to the device as well. Therefore, it is unclear if this prohibition on misleading packaging applies to HTP devices.

Manufacturers and importers of HTPs are required to notify the Ministry of Health regarding products circulating in the domestic market after 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 tobacco products, including HTPs, is prohibited in health institutions, educational institutions, and by street vendors.