Less tobacco shops in Hungary than ever before

As of January 2, 2025, Hungary has seen a significant decline in the number of tobacco shops, reaching its lowest count since the industry was restructured in 2013.

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January 04, 2025

Recent data indicates that 2024 continued the trend of reducing the number of retail outlets selling tobacco products, according to the latest report from 24.hu.

Number of Shops

The Hungarian Regulatory Authority for Regulated Activities (SZTFH) shows a worrying statistic—there are currently 5,695 tobacco shops throughout the country. This figure has not been this low since the reorganization in 2013, when there were initially 5,972 shops. By 2014, the number had fallen to 6,355. More alarmingly, the authority recorded an increase in the number of municipalities without any tobacco shops, which rose to 675 by the end of 2024.

Licensing Regulations

The operation of tobacco shops is governed by specific licensing regulations, whereby shops must hold a concession license or a special designation. Currently, 5,051 shops operate under a concession license, while 644 have been designated to sell tobacco products, which can be revoked without explanation.

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