Compromise proposal on tobacco ‘is opposite of harm reduction’
January 19, 2026 by brusselssignal.eu
Compromise proposal on tobacco ‘is opposite of harm reduction’
A leaked compromise proposal from the Cypriot presidency on the EU's Tobacco Excise Directive has faced criticism for undermining harm reduction by discouraging switching to less harmful alternatives. Despite lowering tax rates on vaping and heated tobacco compared to the European Commission’s plan, critics argue the proposal maintains a structure that favors fiscal goals over public health. [...] The World Vapers’ Alliance opposes the proposal, urging member states to reject it and opt for taxation that strongly promotes switching to lower-risk options.
