The European Commission on 4 April 2006 warned four countries for failing to implement a 2003 European Union-wide ban on most forms of tobacco advertising.

The regulator said Spain, Italy, Hungary, and the Czech republic aren't complying with EU rules and gave the countries two months to change policies before further, formal steps are taken. "
The Commission's 2003 tobacco legislation bans advertising in print media, on the radio, and over the Internet. It also prohibits tobacco sponsorship for events that are seen throughout the EU, like motor racing. Tobacco advertising on television has been banned in the EU since the early 1990s.The EU's 25 member countries had until last July to adapt their national policies to the 2003 rules.
The Commission said Spain still hasn't complied with the rules, since its ban on tobacco advertising at motor racing events doesn't come into force for another three years. The Commission said Italy has the right to allow tobacco advertising for events that are seen only in Italy, but noted that Italy hasn't banned tobacco ads for events seen elsewhere in the EU. The regulator said Hungary's exemption on the tobacco advertising ban for " events of economic importance" doesn't conform with EU rules. The Czech Republic's three-year delay on enforcing the ban also is illegal, the Commission said. If these countries don't change their policies, the Commission said it will issue "a reasoned opinion," a formal finding that brings the countries one step closer to court action and possible fines. (pi)