What South Korea Can Teach Europe About Taxing Nicotine
July 21, 2026 by worldvapersalliance.com
What South Korea Can Teach Europe About Taxing Nicotine
South Korea's high taxes on nicotine pouches, compared to cigarettes, hinder tobacco harm reduction efforts. In contrast, Sweden's lower taxes on smoke-free alternatives have drastically reduced smoking rates. South Korea's stringent regulations treat all nicotine products like cigarettes, impeding public health goals. Korea's lack of progress highlights the importance of distinguishing between products based on harm. For the EU, decisions on taxation and regulation will impact tobacco control efforts. Following Sweden's approach of targeting harm reduction over consumption could lead to lower smoking rates and healthcare costs. The EU should consider Sweden's model when updating tobacco directives to prioritize public health.
17.60% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 8.1 million current smokers in South Korea 30.20% of men are current smokers but only 5.10% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR
