Croatia bans night alcohol sales and energy drinks to minors

Croatia’s parliament approved amendments to the Trade Act that introduce two major consumer‑protection measures. All 117 lawmakers voted to allow municipalities to forbid the sale of alcoholic beverages in shops between 21:00 and 06:00, while bars and restaurants remain exempt. The change targets drunken tourists who have caused public disorder in coastal resorts such as Split, Hvar and Zadar. Split mayor Tomislav Šuta announced that his city will ban shop alcohol sales from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. to “curb drunkenness and disorderly behaviour.” Tourism minister Tonči Glavina said the aim is to “improve the quality of life of locals who want to live in a good symbiosis with tourism.”

The same legislative package also bans the sale of energy drinks to anyone under 18. Retailers must refuse sales to minors and verify age for online purchases, with fines for non‑compliance. European Parliament member Biljana Borzan called the restriction “a big victory for children’s health.”

Tourism accounts for roughly 20 % of Croatia’s GDP; in 2025 the country hosted nearly 22 million visitors. The new rules are intended to protect public health, public order, cultural heritage and the environment while preserving tourism’s economic contribution.