Over the past year, the Czech Trade Inspection Authority carried out nearly 7,000 inspections to monitor retailers’ compliance with laws on alcohol and tobacco sales, excise duties, and mandatory alcohol labeling. Violations were found in 48% of cases, with minors successfully purchasing alcohol in almost half of the 900 checks where they were involved.
The most common breaches included failing to inform customers about prices or discounts, as well as selling alcohol to minors. Authorities issued 2,809 fines, totaling more than 26.5 million CZK.
The campaign targeted sales of alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, e-cigarettes, and nicotine pouches. “As part of the campaign, 894 investigations involved individuals under 18, and in 429 cases, violations of the ban on selling alcohol to minors were identified—that is, almost 45%,” said František Kotrba, the inspection’s spokesperson.
Inspectors collaborated with multiple agencies, including the Czech police, trade licensing authorities, customs administration, and health officials. “In total, of the 6,804 inspections, alcohol was illegally sold to minors in 429 cases, which represents 6.31% of all inspections,” Kotrba added.
Additionally, sales of tobacco products, e-cigarettes, and nicotine pouches to minors were uncovered in 117 cases. Some retailers also failed to display mandatory signs prohibiting sales to those under 18.
Only 12 violations related to excise duty laws were recorded, primarily involving the improper sale of tobacco products. No issues with alcohol labeling were found.
Consumer protection breaches accounted for 3,217 cases, with frequent violations including unclear pricing, unfair sales practices, and incorrect or missing receipts.
