Nemzeti Dohánybolt

An example of a dohánybolt in Budapest, Hungary

Nemzeti Dohánybolt (English: National Tobacco Shop) is a network of retail outlets in Hungary that are the only stores legally allowed to sell tobacco products in the country. This system was introduced by the Hungarian government in 2013 as part of efforts to reduce smoking rates, protect minors, and combat the black market in tobacco sales. The establishment of Nemzeti Dohánybolt has significantly changed the landscape of tobacco retail in Hungary, making it a unique case study in tobacco control policy.

Background

Prior to the introduction of Nemzeti Dohánybolt, tobacco products in Hungary were widely available in various retail outlets, including supermarkets, newsagents, and petrol stations. However, in an effort to control the sale of tobacco products more strictly, the Hungarian government passed legislation that created a state monopoly over the retail of tobacco products. This legislation mandated that from July 2013, tobacco products could only be sold in licensed tobacco shops, known as Nemzeti Dohánybolt.

Implementation

The implementation of the Nemzeti Dohánybolt system involved a rigorous application process for those wishing to operate a tobacco shop. Applicants had to meet specific criteria and were often selected through a tender process. The number of tobacco shops was also limited to ensure that they were spread out and not too concentrated in any one area. This was intended to make tobacco products less accessible, particularly to young people, and to reduce the visibility of tobacco advertising.

Impact

The introduction of Nemzeti Dohánybolt has had a significant impact on the tobacco market in Hungary. One of the most notable changes has been the reduction in the number of outlets selling tobacco products, from over 40,000 before the law was introduced to around 7,000 Nemzeti Dohánybolt shops. This has made tobacco products less accessible to the general public and has been associated with a decrease in smoking rates among the Hungarian population.

Critics of the Nemzeti Dohánybolt system argue that it has created a monopoly that benefits a small number of individuals and companies, often with political connections, who have been granted licenses to operate these shops. There have also been concerns about the impact on small retailers who were previously able to sell tobacco products but are now excluded from this market.

Regulations

Nemzeti Dohánybolt shops are subject to strict regulations. They are required to adhere to specific design and location criteria, and the visibility of tobacco products inside the shops is restricted to prevent impulse purchases. Advertising of tobacco products is also strictly controlled, with Nemzeti Dohánybolt shops being one of the few places where tobacco advertising is allowed, but only within the confines of the shop.

Conclusion

The Nemzeti Dohánybolt system represents a bold approach to tobacco control, with the Hungarian government taking significant steps to regulate the sale of tobacco products. While it has been successful in reducing the availability of tobacco products and lowering smoking rates, it has also faced criticism for the way licenses have been allocated and the impact on small businesses. As with any public health policy, the long-term effects of this system will continue to be a subject of study and debate.