Changing smoking habits in Hungary: the popularity of heated tobacco products is increasing

By: Trademagazin Date: 2024. 09. 23. 10:58

Smoking habits are undergoing significant changes in Hungary, as confirmed by the latest data from the Regulatory Authority for Regulated Activities (SZTFH). Traditional cigarette consumption continues to decline, while heated tobacco products are gaining more and more market space. This new segment of the tobacco industry has now become dominant, and according to the 2024 data, the trend will only continue to strengthen.

The decline in traditional cigarette consumption continues, albeit at a more moderate pace compared to previous years. Compared to the 2020s, 150-200 million fewer cigarettes are sold per month on average, which means a significant drop on an annual basis. In the summer months of this year, demand increased as usual, but overall, fewer cigarettes are sold in Hungary every year.

The demand for finely cut consumer tobacco has also decreased drastically: 20-30 tons less is bought on a monthly basis, while compared to the 2020s, this decrease can reach 80-100 tons. This 20-25% decline is a significant change compared to the 300-400 tons of monthly sales in previous years. However, the illegal tobacco trade overshadows the official data, since in 2024 there was a significant increase in the sale of tobacco on the black market.