Martin Černý, External Engagement Manager BAT
At BAT Czech Republic, Martin is responsible for regulatory affairs concerning next-generation nicotine products (NGPs) at both local and EU levels. He also handles external communications and engagement with third parties and public health advocates.
Czechia is one of the countries with a long tradition of harm reduction, which began decades ago in relation to illegal drugs and has in recent years extended to tobacco and novel nicotine products. As one of the first EU countries, Czechia introduced regulation for nicotine pouches, sets excise duty according to the product's risk level, and most recently banned flavours targeting children in electronic cigarettes — without significantly restricting flavours for adult users.
The Czech approach demonstrates how proportionate regulation, risk-based taxation and targeted youth protection can coexist – and why this model could serve as a blueprint for other EU member states.
