Read articles from Europe

December 23, 2024 by theportugalnews.com

Portugal's tobacco laws now treat electronic cigarettes like traditional tobacco, affecting consumers' choices and businesses. The changes have led to a rise in the popularity of nicotine pouches as tobacco-free options. The legislation aims to regulate all nicotine products, restrict their use in public places, and prevent underage consumption. Retailers and manufacturers must adjust marketing and sales strategies due to similar restrictions applied to electronic cigarettes and traditional tobacco. Consumers are urged to explore smoke-free alternatives like nicotine pouches that comply with the new regulations, emphasizing health and convenience. The global trend towards tobacco-free alternatives reflects a growing concern for health and wellness, with nicotine pouches offering a discreet and customizable option for users.

December 19, 2024 by straitstimes.com

Belgium will be the first EU country to ban disposable vape sales in January due to concerns about youth use and environmental impact. The country aims to tackle the rise in young smokers starting with e-cigarettes, enforcing that vapes cannot be sold to those under 18. While some view vapes as a tool to quit smoking, the attraction of colorful designs and flavors to children is worrisome. A 2022 WHO survey found a significant increase in Belgian teens using vapes. Germany and France are also working on bans, and Britain will follow in June. The ban aims to reduce plastic waste and chemical pollution from disposable vapes.

December 19, 2024 by bluewaterhealthyliving.com

Belgium will be the first EU country to ban disposable vapes in January to combat youth usage and environmental harm. The move is part of the country's anti-tobacco efforts given concerns about e-cigarettes attracting new young smokers. While some believe vapes aid smoking cessation, health authorities worry about appealing designs and flavors for children. The ban aims to reduce the environmental impact of single-use vapes containing plastics and non-rechargeable batteries. Other EU countries like Germany and France are also considering bans. Belgium hopes the measure will promote reusable vapes.

December 19, 2024 by rtl.lu

Cancer Foundation Director Margot Heirendt calls for stricter tobacco laws in Luxembourg due to high smoking rates among young people. She emphasizes protecting youth from smoking and criticizes the tobacco industry for targeting them with products like vapes and nicotine pouches. Proposed measures include banning vapes and enhancing support for smokers to quit, aligning with the "Tobacco-Free Generation 2040" strategy. Heirendt also advocates for scrutiny of tobacco tax revenue and highlights weak alcohol protection laws in Luxembourg. The Cancer Foundation works to support cancer patients and their families, focusing on integrating patients into society.

December 17, 2024 by daily-pouch.com

The TES article on snus explores the growing trend and controversies surrounding nicotine products, emphasizing the need for nuanced understanding. While caution about youth usage is warranted, balanced education and regulation are crucial for harm reduction. Media portrayal plays a pivotal role in shaping public opinion, highlighting the importance of accurate information dissemination. Overall, a comprehensive approach to addressing concerns and acknowledging the potential benefits of nicotine pouches is essential for promoting public health. Striking a balance between vigilance and informed decisions can guide the integration of harm reduction tools in the future.

December 12, 2024 by eureporter.co

EU member states agreed in Brussels to limit exposure to tobacco smoke in public spaces such as playgrounds and café terraces. The recommendation also includes heated tobacco devices and e-cigarettes but is not legally binding. However, it sparked a heated debate in the European Parliament, where a resolution on the matter failed on November 28. Many MEPs, including those from the EPP, advocate excluding modern tobacco products such as e-cigarettes from these restrictions. French MEP Laurent Castillo, a doctor and professor of medicine, emphasized that e-cigarettes help people quit smoking, as confirmed by recent medical studies.

December 11, 2024 by bbc.co.uk

The Welsh government advises businesses to seek alternative suppliers, educate staff, and inform customers due to the vape ban starting in June 2025, following the UK's decision. The Scottish government has aligned its ban with England and Wales. Concerns about vaping attracting non-smokers in the UK led to estimates of one million new vapers who were not regular smokers. The ban may lead to a rise in illegal vapes with higher nicotine levels, as Swansea council seized over 140,000 illegal vapes earlier this year. Businesses must also plan for the safe disposal of single-use vapes for their customers.

December 10, 2024 by lsm.lv

The EPSCO calls for extending restrictions to ban tobacco smoke and vaping in public areas including balconies, train platforms, and workplaces in Latvia. Proposed regulations may include banning electronic cigarette use near windows. Despite opposition from the Smokefree Industry Association, the goal is to protect the public from harmful exposure. Discussions on the implementation timeline are ongoing, with monitoring currently conducted by state and municipal police. Suggestions for designated smoke-free areas are also considered. Debate continues on the health risks of passive vaping, with some advocating for stricter regulations to prevent health issues, especially among young people.

December 10, 2024 by livemint.com

Philip Morris International's CEO, Jacek Olczak, stated to the Mail on Sunday that the company anticipates ending traditional cigarette sales in the UK in 10 years. He aims to transition the company away from smoking. Olczak confirmed that within a decade, Philip Morris will stop selling cigarettes in the UK, including the Marlboro brand. The company plans to focus on alternatives like the IQOS heated tobacco system. Philip Morris aims to generate a majority of revenues from smoke-free products by 2025, aligning with the UK government's goal to end smoking in England by 2030.

December 09, 2024 by tovima.com

Sixteen EU countries urge the European Commission for updated tobacco taxation laws, including e-cigarettes. Fragmented national measures prompt a call for consistent regulations. Concerns about varied taxation and bans across member states highlight the need for a comprehensive overhaul of the 2011 directive. Ministers express worries over distorted competition and environmental impact, emphasizing the inadequacy of current legislation. The delayed update is expected to address inconsistencies and prioritize market integrity under the new Commission.