Illogical cancer plan will tax all nicotine products the same, while only labelling the carcinogen in your glass
October 02, 2026 by parliamentnews.co.uk
Illogical cancer plan will tax all nicotine products the same, while only labelling the carcinogen in your glass
The European Parliament’s public health committee approved a non-binding cancer policy report calling for higher, converging minimum taxes on all tobacco and nicotine products, while favouring labelling and awareness measures for alcohol and ultra-processed foods. Critics, including Czech MEP Tomáš Kubín, argue this approach ignores differing product risks, undermines harm reduction and conflicts with Parliament’s recent cardiovascular policy. They advocate evidence-based regulation, strict protections for minors and differentiated taxes encouraging healthier alternatives. Health economist Franco Sassi also calls for smarter food taxation to reduce cancer risks. The article urges Parliament to correct these perceived inconsistencies during the expected October–November plenary vote.
