Read articles from Sweden

January 12, 2026 by vejpkollen.se

EU Health Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi faces backlash for claiming that smokeless nicotine products are as harmful as cigarettes, sparking criticism and strong reactions. Várhelyi, referring to the WHO, suggests taxing these products like cigarettes, despite lacking scientific evidence to support the claim. The debate continues as Várhelyi's stance is questioned by scientists and seen as misinformation by critics, including those in Sweden. The controversy follows past disputed statements by Várhelyi on nicotine, prompting calls for accountability and scrutiny of his role in public health. The European Commission is expected to propose new regulations for nicotine products in 2026, potentially affecting taxes on snus and e-cigarettes.

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 01, 2025 by spectator.co.uk

In Europe, there is a growing focus on reducing tobacco use through generational smoking bans and stricter regulations. Philip Morris International aims for most of its revenue to come from smoke-free products like Zyn by 2030. A discussion sponsored by PMI explores how nicotine pouches can aid the shift to a smoke-free future, featuring perspectives from their chief communications officer and a Swedish MEP. The conversation delves into whether PMI's motives are genuine or business-driven, lessons from Sweden's smoke-free goals, and the scientific aspects. The Spectator maintains editorial independence in this sponsored podcast.

November 28, 2025 by gulfnews.com

Sweden's harm reduction strategy led to a 55% decrease in smoking rates, 38% less tobacco-related male deaths, and 41% lower lung cancer rates. The country's unique approach includes promoting less harmful alternatives like nicotine pouches, resulting in 18% usage. Over two decades, a gradual decline in smoking was achieved through awareness campaigns and product availability. Sweden's pioneering model aims for a smoke-free future, with less than 5% of adults smoking. This strategy, based on societal awareness and alternatives rather than bans, could serve as a replicable example for other countries. The focus on harm reduction and public empowerment highlights a practical approach to reducing smoking-related risks globally.

October 21, 2025 by vejpkollen.se

WHO is considering stricter regulations on nicotine products, with the Swedish Parliament defending their harm reduction approach. Tobias Andersson emphasizes the importance of Sweden standing up for its policies. Concerns arise as EU and WHO propose measures against e-cigarettes and snus. Andersson advocates for extending Sweden's model internationally. Elisabeth Lann highlights Sweden's low tobacco-related mortality. Transparency issues are raised regarding the upcoming WHO meeting. The debate focuses on harm reduction benefits of snus compared to smoking. The Minister of Health stresses the milder effects of snus. Questions remain on Sweden's stance at the COP11 meeting. The need for clarity on influencing WHO decisions is emphasized.

October 01, 2025 by vejpkollen.se

The European Commission faces opposition over its record budget due to proposed new nicotine and corporate taxes, prompting 14 member states, led by Sweden, to oppose the plan. Concerns exist about tax revenue distribution, harm reduction perspectives, and market harmonization. The dispute may lead to a budget overhaul to secure necessary support.

September 24, 2025 by smokefreesweden.org

The passage highlights that, despite decades of work and major financial investment, smoking continues to kill over 7 million people worldwide each year, and progress in reducing it has stalled in many countries. It argues that current methods are clearly insufficient, and a new strategy is urgently needed. The report suggests that embracing safer nicotine alternatives (SNAs) offers a practical and evidence-based solution, leading to sharp declines in smoking, improved public health, and reduced healthcare expenses.

September 02, 2025 by 2firsts.com

Dr. Ziauddin Islam's article discusses how Pakistan can learn from Sweden's success in becoming the first "smoke-free" nation. By adopting strict policies, harm reduction strategies, and promoting reduced-risk products, Pakistan can work towards reducing its tobacco-related deaths. Sweden's success in lowering smoking rates through evidence-based policies and harm reduction serves as a model for other countries. Pakistan faces challenges in enforcing tobacco control laws and lacks research on harm reduction products. Emulating Sweden's comprehensive approach and promoting public awareness can help Pakistan move towards a smoke-free future. Dr. Islam emphasizes the importance of determination and effective policymaking in combating the tobacco epidemic.

August 25, 2025 by scandasia.com

Sweden's successful move towards becoming smoke-free is influencing Asia, particularly the Philippines, where Japan Tobacco International (JTI) introduced nicotine pouches. With only 5.4% daily smokers in Sweden, the country attributes this to strict regulations and alternative options. JTI's Nordic Spirit, produced in Sweden, has gained popularity in the Philippines. JTI focuses on former smokers in Sweden, with positive results. The Philippines' familiarity with oral products made Nordic Spirit well-received. JTI tailored the product for the local market with affordable pricing. This initiative competes with other similar products, signaling a potential shift in global tobacco trends and a new direction for Asian markets.

August 11, 2025 by filtermag.org

Sweden’s use of the oral tobacco product snus has led it towards becoming the world’s first “smoke-free” country (defined as an overall smoking rate below 5 percent). But modern nicotine pouches are accelerating this progress—with women leading the way, highlights a new report.