Between 2019 and 2024, Austria experienced notable shifts in smoking behaviors, including both traditional cigarette use and the adoption of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes).
Traditional Smoking Trends
In 2019, 27.1% of Austrians aged 15 and over were current smokers, consistent with 2018 figures.
By 2020, this rate declined slightly to 26.4%.
Despite the implementation of a comprehensive indoor smoking ban in November 2019, which prohibited smoking in all enclosed public spaces, including bars and restaurants, smoking rates remained relatively high.
E-Cigarette Adoption
The adoption of e-cigarettes in Austria has been on the rise.
The average revenue per capita in the e-cigarettes segment of the tobacco products market in Austria was forecast to continuously increase between 2024 and 2029, indicating a growing consumer base.
This trend mirrors global patterns, with the e-cigarette market worldwide projected to grow significantly in the coming years.
Health Implications and Regulatory Measures
The rise in e-cigarette use has prompted health concerns and regulatory responses.
In Austria, e-cigarettes are regulated under the Amended Austrian Tobacco Act 2016, and since May 2018, vaping is prohibited wherever smoking bans apply, including in cars where minors are present.
These measures aim to mitigate potential health risks associated with both traditional and electronic smoking devices.
Conclusion
From 2019 to 2024, Austria has seen a slight decline in traditional smoking rates alongside an increase in e-cigarette adoption.
While regulatory measures have been implemented to address these trends, ongoing public health efforts are essential to further reduce smoking prevalence and address the complexities introduced by alternative nicotine delivery systems.
References:
- Macrotrends. (n.d.). Austria Smoking Rate 2000-2025. Retrieved from https://www.macrotrends.net/global-metrics/countries/AUT/austria/smoking-rate-statistics
- Visiting Vienna. (n.d.). Smoking in Vienna. Retrieved from https://www.visitingvienna.com/visitorinfo/smoking/
- Statista. (2024). ARPU in the e-cigarettes segment Austria 2019-2029. Retrieved from https://www.statista.com/forecasts/1438705/average-revenue-per-unit-arpu-e-cigarettes-tobacco-products-market-austria
- Statista. (2024). E-Cigarettes – Worldwide | Statista Market Forecast. Retrieved from https://www.statista.com/outlook/emo/tobacco-products/e-cigarettes/worldwide
- Global State of Tobacco Harm Reduction. (2024). Smoking, vaping, HTP, NRT and snus in Austria. Retrieved from https://gsthr.org/countries/profile/AUT/