Caterers Will Sue Croatia Over Smoking Ban

The Caterers` Guild wants stimulus for the tobacco industry to be redirected to the Caterers` Fund.

ZAGREB, CROATIA – Since May 6, when the smoking ban was applied in all catering objects, a drastic drop of business has been recorded, the Guild of Caterers and Tourism Employees, as well as the Croatian Chamber of Commerce`s Trade Guild told a press conference, without announcing any specific figures on the drop.

- The law was planning to protect non-smokers, but the legislative body did not have caterers in mind. I do not support violating the law, but I understand the colleague from Slovenia, who paced a sign reading “Smoking allowed” on his café – Mato Topic said.

The Croatian Chamber of Commerce is preparing a Constitutional lawsuit against Croatia, because the same conditions for all caterers have not been introduced. Those objects which do not have terraces, where smoking is allowed, cannot host smokers.

Introducing the smoking ban began 30 years ago in America, three years ago in Austria, while Croatia adopted the smoking ban six months ago. Croatia needs a longer period to adapt and for the citizens to adapt to the new law, as well as the caterers.

Zlatko Puntjar

Mato Topic said that the Caterers` Guild wants stimulus for the tobacco industry to be redirected to the Caterers` Fund.

Furthermore, the caterers want the Austrian model of the smoking ban to be introduced to Croatia and they object the government on the short period of adjustment to the new law (which was six months).

Despite everything, they point out good collaboration with the Ministry of Economy and interpret Croatian Health Minister Darko Milinovic`s statement, who said he is prepared for further talks, as good will for steps to be taken.

Regarding the ban on working Sundays, the Guild wants positive discrimination, according to which small crafts would not be limited when it comes to working hours.

- Research showed a drop of business with small retail sale businesses between 15 and 20 percent, while 17 percent less bread is sold, which is a fundamental product. This means the situation is alarming – Boris Vukelic of the small shops` Guild said.