Read articles from Europe

December 18, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

The European Commission will fast track revisions to tobacco control laws, aiming for a proposal in 2026 to reduce smoking rates to under 5% by 2040. Plans include revising the legislative framework on tobacco control. Despite concerns, there is a desire to increase taxes on safer nicotine products and potentially on processed foods. Delays have led to a race against time for proposal approval, with various bureaucratic processes needed. The process includes evaluating existing laws, public consultation, and approvals within the EU executive before passing to Member States and the European Parliament. Meeting the new deadline presents challenges due to the complex procedures involved.

December 18, 2025 by worldvapersalliance.com

The European Commission's Safe Hearts Plan aims to address cardiovascular issues by involving safer nicotine products in harm reduction. Despite smoking's impact on heart health, EU smoking rates have barely decreased. The plan's failure to prioritize harm reduction may delay the 5 percent target by 2040 to 2100. The World Vapers' Alliance criticizes the plan for overlooking the benefits of alternatives like vaping and snus used successfully in countries such as Sweden. The Alliance suggests the EU should adopt risk-based regulation to achieve smoke-free goals, as demonstrated by successful examples in countries like Sweden, the Czech Republic, and Greece.

December 17, 2025 by independent.co.uk

Nicotine pouches, a new smoking cessation trend, are tobacco-free sachets with nicotine. Marketed as a healthier alternative to smoking and vaping, they aren't as regulated as nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) and can be easily bought. Despite being less addictive than cigarettes, some pouches contain high nicotine levels and other chemicals. They have side effects like nausea and headaches, impacting oral health in the long term. Not regulated as medicines, they lack strict testing for safety and efficacy. The UK plans to regulate pouch sales to over-18s only, banning ads. While popular, their potential risks warrant caution, suggesting regulated NRTs may be a safer choice for quitting smoking.

December 17, 2025 by bbc.com

A study found that young men are driving the increasing popularity of nicotine pouches in the UK, with 7.5% of 16 to 24-year-old men using them compared to 1.9% of young women. Many users also smoke or vape, and some are using pouches to quit smoking. Nicotine pouch sales have significantly risen in recent years, particularly among young men due to aggressive marketing tactics. The pouches contain synthetic nicotine and are marketed in colorful tins. Researchers call for more research on their effectiveness in smoking cessation. The study surveyed 127,000 people from 2020 to 2025. Recommendations include banning sales to under 18s.

December 15, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

Recent stories about Dutch teens seeking medical attention after vaping and Belgian kids reportedly exposed to opioids through vapes are causing alarm. However, the actual data shows that while teen nicotine use is a concern, the numbers of severe cases are small. Evidence suggests vaping is less harmful than smoking for adults. The issue of opioids in vapes is serious but mainly linked to illegal products, not those from regulated shops. Policy responses should focus on targeted enforcement against illicit products and providing support for nicotine addiction in teens. It's crucial to base policies on evidence rather than misinformation or fear.

December 12, 2025 by vapingpost.com

Nordic countries have effectively reduced smoking rates by offering safer nicotine alternatives like snus, pouches, vapes, and heated tobacco, leading to a significant decline in smoking. Available data shows that these alternatives do not lead to increased smoking rates. However, Denmark's recent tax proposal on these products contradicts the success of harm reduction strategies, risking a return to smoking. The success in Nordic countries highlights that harm reduction works when affordable alternatives are accessible, contrasting with punitive measures. The EU faces a choice between following evidence-based policies that promote harm reduction or hindering progress by restricting access to safer alternatives.

December 11, 2025 by jamesevans.wales

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill, presented in November 2024, aims to regulate tobacco and vape products by restricting sales to individuals born after 1 January 2009, implementing licensing for retailers, and controlling advertising. The bill also covers smoke-free, vape-free, and heated tobacco-free areas. Additionally, the Welsh Parliament is involved in the legislative consent process for this bill, allowing Senedd Members to provide input.

December 11, 2025 by brusselssignal.eu

International tobacco companies are cautioning against proposed excise-duty increases by the European Commission, fearing detrimental impacts on the tobacco industry and minimal public health benefits. The companies argue that treating all tobacco products equally could harm competitiveness, innovation, and employment. The Commission aims to update the Tobacco Excise Directive, increasing taxes on various tobacco and nicotine products. Supporters believe unified taxation will deter exploitative pricing and improve public health. Opponents warn of potential drawbacks, such as increased illicit trade and negative effects on lower-income consumers and national revenues. The reform also raises concerns about infringing on national fiscal sovereignty. The debate highlights divisions within the EU, with some governments advocating for aggressive tax hikes.

December 09, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

The disposable vape ban, implemented six months ago, has not effectively reduced the availability of illicit products. Despite fewer shops selling banned devices, illegal vapes are still easily accessible. Compliance is mixed, with some retailers offering only legal products, while others sell banned vapes alongside upgrades. Concerns over enforcement persist, as some sellers disregard rules. Additionally, the improper disposal of vapes, including rechargeable models, is causing a rise in dangerous fires. Waste management companies report a surge in vape-related incidents, highlighting the ban's unintended consequences. The ban struggles to change behavior, with evidence indicating it may exacerbate issues instead of resolving them.

December 09, 2025 by thesun.co.uk

Five European countries believe the UK's smoking ban for youngsters breaches international law, risking penalties. The ban, proposed by Sir Keir Starmer, might violate EU law for Northern Ireland under the Windsor Framework. The group warns of legal consequences, stressing the importance of compliance with the Single Market rules. Former Lord Chancellor Robert Buckland urges the UK government to address the conflict to avoid a constitutional crisis. Despite calls for closer EU ties post-Brexit, Starmer opposes joining the Customs Union. The UK affirms the Tobacco and Vapes Bill aligns with their obligations, aiming for a smoke-free generation.