French nicotine pouch ban on hold amid EU backlash
July 23, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu
French nicotine pouch ban on hold amid EU backlash
France has delayed its ban on nicotine pouches until August 25 due to objections from seven EU countries. The proposed ban would treat nicotine pouches as dangerous substances, with penalties of up to five years in jail for possession. Critics argue banning these safer alternatives could worsen smoking rates. In contrast, Sweden, a leader in harm reduction, saw success in reducing smoking by supporting alternatives. France justifies the ban as a means to protect public health, while opponents, including pouch manufacturers, highlight the pouches' low risk profile compared to traditional smoking products. The EU-mandated pause allows France to reconsider its plan by the new deadline.
28.30% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 15.7 million current smokers in France.
SOURCE: GSTHR
