The Tobacco Control Alliance has issued a statement reminding the public that the use of any smoking device in enclosed spaces is strictly prohibited under Georgian law and punishable by fines. Penalties may apply to both the individual violator and the business owner.

According to the alliance, some café, bar, and restaurant owners are spreading misinformation that smoking hookahs or using new tobacco products is allowed indoors.

“The main goal of the Tobacco Control Law, adopted in 2017, is to protect public health and reduce tobacco-related morbidity and premature mortality,” the statement reads. “The reform has been largely successful—95% of enclosed public spaces are now smoke-free, and social attitudes have shifted. Smoking in public spaces is no longer the norm. However, challenges remain, particularly in tourist zones such as Batumi and Kobuleti, where violations are frequent in hospitality facilities.”

The alliance emphasized that the issue is particularly acute in establishments owned by foreign nationals, where regulations are often ignored and electronic tobacco sales continue inside.

The organization noted that the lack of consistent public communication allows misinformation to spread. Some business owners, reportedly influenced by the tobacco industry, falsely claim that smoking heated tobacco products and hookahs indoors is permitted. The alliance stressed that all such practices remain illegal and punishable by law.

The statement urged citizens to take an active role in reporting violations: “Any customer or employee who witnesses smoking in cafes, bars, or restaurants should report it to the patrol police via 112 or through our Facebook page ‘Don’t Smoke’. Sending photos or videos of the violation helps monitors take appropriate action. Since patrol police only respond to reported cases, public involvement is crucial.”