Eight EU countries call for tougher restrictions on nicotine products

Eight European Union member states have called on the European Commission to expand restrictions on nicotine products ahead of the revision of the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD3). The Netherlands, Belgium, Finland, France, Hungary, Latvia, Slovenia and Spain are proposing strict nicotine limits, the standardization of products and devices, plain packaging, restrictions on flavors and a ban on advertising.

The document also includes the possibility for member states to ban certain categories of products, as well as blocking access to the European market for new products containing nicotine or similar substances. Nicotine pouches are among the most controversial products targeted, given that they are widely used in some countries, including Sweden.

Supporters of the measures say regulation must keep pace with innovation and marketing in order to achieve the goal of reducing smoking rates to below 5% by 2040. Critics, however, warn that banning alternatives could perpetuate the use of conventional cigarettes. Researcher Konstantinos Farsalinos argues that an exclusively prohibitive approach could have the opposite effect.

The debate is also relevant to Romania. ACPAN is calling for the protection of minors and action against illegal advertising, but is requesting a distinction between commercial promotion and information for adults. Cochrane studies indicate that nicotine e-cigarettes may help some smokers quit and are less harmful than smoking.