The Chamber of Economy of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Federal Administration for Inspection Affairs
organized a one-day consultation dedicated to the implementation of the new Law on the Control and
Limited Use of Tobacco, Tobacco Products and Other Smoking Products and the Rulebook on
Conditions for Special Smoking Areas in Terms of Exceptions to the Smoking Ban. The event brought together
representatives of cantonal inspection authorities, providing them with the necessary guidelines for the effective
implementation of these legal solutions, which bring significant changes for owners of hospitality
facilities, but also for the wider public.
The new law strictly prohibits smoking in all enclosed public spaces, including hospitality
facilities, workplaces and public transport. This ban covers tobacco and herbal smoking products,
shisha and water pipes. The use of tobacco heating technology is not prohibited. The aim of the consultation is
to provide insight into the relevant legal provisions as well as clear guidelines from the Rulebook that more detailed
explain the exceptions to the smoking ban and the exchange of experiences and information from the field and practice.
Mirsad Jašarspahić, president of the Chamber of Economy of the Federation of BiH, in his introductory speech, emphasized the importance of
adapting hospitality operators to the new legal frameworks. “Owners of hospitality facilities are obliged to
align their work with the provisions of the Rulebook within six months. To make this process easier for them,
we launched an information campaign and a series of educational content for representatives of the Horeca sector.
Equally important are the inspection authorities, under whose vigilant supervision the process is carried out,” said
Jašarspahić.
One of the key provisions of the Rulebook concerns the obligation of physical separation of smoking areas in
hospitality facilities larger than 50 square meters, which must be equipped with adequate
ventilation and air filtration systems. In smaller facilities, where only drinks are served, smoking may be
allowed, provided that the spaces are properly ventilated.
Ivana Prvulović, director of the Federal Administration for Inspection Affairs, emphasized the Administration’s commitment
to, through this consultation and future cooperation and coordination with cantonal inspection authorities,
provide maximum contribution and dedication to the application and supervision of legislation that has a huge impact
on health. “This Law is not only a legal framework, but also an important tool for protecting health and improving
the quality of life. Its application has direct consequences for reducing exposure to tobacco smoke
and encouraging healthier lifestyle habits, and the role of inspectors is key in ensuring consistent and
effective implementation of prescribed measures.” She expressed hope that the consultation would provide inspectors with
useful information and resolve any dilemmas, enabling them to face with confidence the
challenges brought by this Law.
Until the beginning of the application of the Rulebook on 13 December 2024, inspection supervision will be advisory,
with the aim of adapting hospitality operators to the new regulations as efficiently as possible. Monetary penalties for violations
range from 2,000 to 5,000 KM for legal entities, and from 300 to 1,000 KM for responsible persons.
The consultation concluded with a call by President Jašarspahić and Director Prvulović for active
cooperation of all actors so that the process of adapting to the new legal provisions proceeds as successfully as possible.
