Read articles from Europe

March 27, 2025 by irishnews.com

MPs have approved the Tobacco and Vapes Bill in the UK, aiming to create a smoke-free generation by gradually raising the legal smoking age and regulating vaping products to protect youth. The bill bans under-18s from buying nicotine products, restricts vape advertising, and prohibits smoking near schools and hospitals. The proposal also includes plans to regulate vape packaging and flavors to prevent appeal to children. Despite opposition, the bill passed in the House of Commons, focusing on reducing smoking and youth vaping. The bill will face further review in the House of Lords.

March 27, 2025 by inquirer.net

French oncologist David Khayat advocates for harm reduction strategies in tobacco control, arguing that alternative smoking methods reduce cancer risk by minimizing exposure to harmful substances. He highlights the inefficacy of traditional anti-smoking policies and emphasizes the need for regulatory frameworks supporting smoke-free technologies. Khayat stresses the importance of balancing smoking cessation efforts with harm reduction, aiming to transition smokers away from cigarettes. He criticizes the World Health Organization's opposition to harm reduction and urges policymakers to consider evidence supporting reduced-risk products. As global discussions on tobacco control evolve, the focus on harm reduction is expected to intensify at the upcoming WHO conference in November.

March 21, 2025 by taxfoundation.org

The update to the EU's Tobacco Excise Tax Directive seeks harm reduction through taxing safer products less, potentially reducing smoking rates and illicit markets. Sweden's success in embracing alternative tobacco products and reducing smoking rates is a model for other EU countries to follow. ATPs like vaping and snus offer less harmful nicotine consumption options, driving public health benefits globally. However, stringent restrictions in some EU countries hinder harm reduction. An updated Directive should support less harmful products through reduced taxes, promoting public health. International businesses could shift focus to safer products, influencing global health trends positively. The EU must lead by example in harm reduction for tobacco policy worldwide.

March 21, 2025 by eutoday.net

The EU faces pressure from anti-vaping advocates to impose strict regulations on e-cigarettes. The Dutch Health Minister urged the EU to take decisive action, including flavor restrictions. Various EU countries are adopting their own vaping regulations, with a trend towards flavor bans. However, studies show flavor bans may increase harm by driving consumers to the black market. Lessons from regions like the US, Canada, and Australia demonstrate the unintended consequences of flavor bans. To achieve harm reduction goals, the EU should adopt a balanced vaping policy that supports smokers in transitioning away from tobacco. Embracing harm reduction strategies, like those in Sweden and Norway, can lead to a successful tobacco-free future.

March 20, 2025 by theguardian.com

Smoking rates in parts of England have recently risen after nearly two decades of decline. Research from University College London showed a 10% increase in smoking in southern England from 2020 to 2024. The study suggested higher smoking rates among women and potential relapses among quitters. Despite progress in the north, concerns about funding cuts for smoking cessation programs were raised. Efforts to tackle smoking are seen as crucial, with calls for equal access to stop smoking services across the country. Experts emphasize the importance of maintaining momentum to achieve a smoke-free UK.

March 20, 2025 by vaping360.com

Multiple European countries are imposing bans and restrictions on nicotine pouches, while combustible cigarettes remain unrestricted. Tobacco control groups claim nicotine pouches are a ploy by the tobacco industry to hook young users. Despite being safer than smoking, pouches face scrutiny. The European Union lacks specific regulations for pouches, leading to member states creating disparate laws. Some countries, like Belgium, France, and the Netherlands, have banned pouch sales, while others implement limits on nicotine strength and flavors. The EU's failure to address pouch regulation contrasts with widespread cigarette availability, undermining harm reduction efforts and public health benefits.

March 19, 2025 by londonlovesbusiness.com

Nicotine dependency is a tough habit to break, impacting both brain reward systems and physical routines. CBD is gaining attention as a non-addictive alternative due to its interaction with brain receptors that regulate cravings and stress. Canavape, founded in 2014, offers a variety of CBD products aimed at providing well-being support. CBD's effectiveness is attributed to its interaction with the endocannabinoid system, different from nicotine's action on acetylcholine receptors. Canavape products are UK-formulated and lab-tested, catering to diverse well-being needs. For those looking to transition from nicotine, CBD provides a holistic solution supporting physical and mental health.

March 19, 2025 by gfn.tv

In the wake of a major vaping regulation overhaul in France, Claude Bamberger joins us to uncover the extent of the new disposable vape ban and where this leaves people who want to quit smoking.

March 19, 2025 by europapress.es

A study by World Vapers’ Alliance highlights the importance of vaping flavors in smoking cessation. 87% of Spanish vapers believe flavors help them stay tobacco-free or smoke less. The research, based on 585 Spanish vapers, shows that flavors play a key role in reducing cigarette consumption. The study indicates that vaping flavors are essential tools for smokers to quit or cut down on smoking. The ban on flavors could hinder these efforts. The Ministry of Health plans to restrict e-liquid flavors to tobacco only, despite evidence showing the effectiveness of flavored options.

March 18, 2025 by tobaccoreporter.com

The European Commission's new directive will raise cigarette prices in Bulgaria by 2.40 leva ($1.34) on April 1. The minimum excise duty for cigarettes will double to 180 euros per 1,000 cigarettes. For Bulgaria, this means a tax of 6.02 leva ($3.37) per pack, up from the current 4.05 leva ($2.27). The Ministry of Finance is considering different options for implementing these changes. Another excise tax increase is planned for May 1, expected to generate additional revenue for the country.