Kosovo's tobacco imports hit record high

Kosovo ranks as the poorest country in Europe, yet millions of euros are being spent on tobacco consumption. According to statistics from the Kosovo Customs, in 2024, Kosovo saw an increase in the value of tobacco imports as a luxury product.

The value of tobacco imports exceeds 125 million euros in 2024, a rise of over 6 million euros compared to 2023, which was over 119 million euros, CE Report quotes Kosova Press.

"In 2024, Kosovo imported a total of 125 million, 244 thousand, and 175 euros worth of tobacco, while in 2023 this figure was 119 million, 170 thousand, and 767 euros," according to Kosovo Customs statistics.

In terms of tobacco import quantity, in 2024 Kosovo imported approximately 4,150 tons, compared to 4,187 tons in 2023.

Meanwhile, according to the Kosovo Agency of Statistics, the price of this product increased by 1.4% in December 2024 compared to the same period in the previous year, i.e., December 2023.

Despite the negative health effects, the citizens of Kosovo continue to indulge in tobacco use. On the other hand, the World Health Organization reports high figures of deaths caused by tobacco use worldwide.