Read articles from Europe

June 04, 2025 by tobaccointelligence.com

Proposed legislation in Poland aims to ban flavoured nicotine pouches and disposable vapes to reduce youth access to nicotine. Similar moves in France and potential restrictions in Luxembourg, Ireland, and Spain indicate a trend towards stricter regulations on such products in Europe. Critics argue that bans could fuel black market sales, while supporters emphasize public health benefits. Sweden, with its harm reduction approach allowing snus sales, contrasts with Poland's stance. The ongoing debate raises questions about the future direction of nicotine policy across European countries.

June 03, 2025 by westminsterextra.co.uk

A ban on single-use disposable vaping devices in the UK has led to panic-buying and discounts on products. This legislation aims to reduce nicotine addiction and fire hazards. However, concerns remain about enforcement and potential loopholes. Groups suggest licensing vape sellers to ensure compliance. There are worries about a return to smoking and the attractiveness of new vape products. Despite efforts to crack down on illegal sales, shops in Westminster have been found with suspected counterfeit and stolen goods. Authorities are increasing checks on vape sales to uphold the ban and protect consumers.

June 02, 2025 by lbc.co.uk

Single-use vapes are now banned in the UK to reduce litter and prevent youth nicotine addiction. The government aims to promote reusable vapes for smoking cessation. Retailers faced a sudden ban, but reusable vapes with refillable containers and rechargeable batteries remain legal. Disposable vapes are prohibited, impacting users and sellers. Nicotine intake from vaping is low, with the main health concern being nicotine addiction. Cannabis edibles like gummies are illegal in the UK due to their classification as a class B drug, associated with negative side effects.

June 02, 2025 by euronews.com

Countries such as Italy, Greece, and Romania, which have lower tax rates, oppose the proposal to increase taxes on nicotine products. Meanwhile, pressure is mounting on the EU to tax vapes and nicotine pouches. Last week, 15 finance and economy ministers urged EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to publish the long-delayed Tobacco Taxation Directive (TTD), arguing that the current rules are outdated and don't cover newer nicotine products like e-cigarettes and heated tobacco. The revision was initially proposed in 2022 as part of Europe's Beating Cancer Plan.

May 29, 2025 by filtermag.org

European Commissioner Varhelyi's misleading statements on vaping's health risks have sparked criticism. Advocates urge him to consult experts, as anti-vape policies unfold in the EU. Varhelyi's claims of vaping being as harmful as smoking and causing "popcorn lung" are refuted by scientific evidence. The European Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates express concerns over misinformation influencing regulations that restrict safer nicotine products. They emphasize the need for policy decisions based on facts, not myths. Varhelyi's role includes spearheading initiatives to reduce cancer rates linked to smoking in the EU, despite vaping's proven role in smoking cessation. Requests for a meeting to address misinformation have been made, aiming to safeguard public health decisions.

May 29, 2025 by bnn-news.com

Wealthy EU countries are urging the European Commission to revisit plans for a minimum tax on e-cigarettes and raise excise duties on tobacco products, proposed by Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra. The plan faces opposition from countries with lower tax rates and those investing in innovative tobacco. Italy warns against hindering innovation, as sharp tax hikes could increase smuggling. Concerns are raised over proposed high taxes on new tobacco products lacking EU regulation. The push for a unified EU policy on alternative tobacco products is suggested to address rising smuggling issues. Drastic tax hikes may not be suitable now, as they could strain resources and enforcement without substantial benefits.

May 28, 2025 by dailymail.co.uk

A report warns that the upcoming disposable vapes ban could lead to 200,000 people reverting to smoking, potentially hindering the UK's progress towards a smoke-free nation. Concerns arise as 45% of vapers use disposable devices, with the highest prevalence among young adults. The ban may prompt 12% of users to switch back to smoking, while the majority plan to switch to other vapes or consider alternative nicotine replacement therapies. Suggestions include stricter regulations on vape products and a national anti-smoking campaign. Urgent action is advised to prevent unintended consequences and prioritize reducing youth vaping rates.

May 28, 2025 by worldvapersalliance.com

The European Commission and WHO spread misinformation linking vaping to smoking, hindering harm reduction efforts. Officials like Commissioner Hoekstra falsely equate vaping with smoking, ignoring evidence and discouraging smokers from switching. The WHO director mistakenly claims all tobacco is equally harmful, disregarding vaping's safer profile. This misinformation leads to more deaths and disease by deterring smokers from switching to less harmful alternatives. The upcoming EU directive reviews offer a chance to correct this harmful trend with evidence-based regulation. As World Vape Day nears, contrasting celebrations highlight vaping's success in helping millions quit smoking. It's crucial for the EU Commission and WHO to prioritize public health over ideology and end their harmful stance on harm reduction.

May 28, 2025 by thesun.co.uk

Carrying nicotine pouches in France can now lead to five years in jail and a £320,000 fine, stricter penalties than for heroin possession. The law change makes France the toughest European country on pouch control, causing concerns for British tourists. Law experts and campaigners criticize the disproportionate punishments, which affect even athletes and tourists unwittingly breaking the law. Other EU nations have imposed restrictions on pouches, but France's criminalization for personal use is unprecedented. Despite evidence of pouches' safety, the ban has taken effect, contrasting with harm reduction strategies in other countries like Sweden. The law's enforcement challenges and potential for a black market have raised further criticisms.

May 28, 2025 by dutchnews.nl

Dutch teenagers' vaping rate rose to 7.6%, while smoking increased slightly among 12 to 18-year-olds. Conversely, young adults' vaping decreased to 8.6%. The sale of flavored vape liquids has been banned since 2024, but a black market thrives. Instances of severe health issues due to vaping have been reported, prompting government action. The health ministry is considering raising the legal age to 21, criminalizing flavored vape sales, and advocating for stricter EU regulations on e-cigarettes.