Finland to Strengthen Regulation of Nicotine Pouches Under the Tobacco Act
On September 23, the Finnish Parliament announced on the social media platform X that the Social and Health Committee had given its backing to a proposal aimed at regulating nicotine pouches under the Tobacco Act. This proposal mandates licensing for retail sales, limits nicotine content, and restricts flavor selections, aligning these products with regulations for tobacco items.
According to the government’s proposal, nicotine pouches will now fall within the regulatory framework of the Tobacco Act, introducing a category known as “smokeless nicotine products.” Retailers will be required to obtain licenses, and there will be strict limits on nicotine levels. Flavor options will be restricted to more adult-oriented flavors such as mint, tea, and ginger. Furthermore, nicotine pouches will face similar regulatory measures as tobacco products and nicotine liquids, including standardized packaging, mandatory health warnings, regulatory fees, and bans on sales and usage by individuals under 18. The use of these pouches will also be prohibited on the premises of kindergartens, elementary schools, high schools, and vocational schools.
The primary aim of amending the Tobacco Act is to curb gray market imports, illegal sales, and organized crime. By ensuring that nicotine pouches are sold through legal channels, Finland hopes to reduce the number of consumers obtaining them through illicit means. Another key goal is to decrease the usage of nicotine pouches among teenagers by reducing their appeal and accessibility, thereby lowering the risk of nicotine addiction in minors.
The Social Affairs and Health Committee has emphasized that the effects of these revised regulations need to be closely monitored, with the flexibility to tighten measures if necessary. As neighboring Nordic countries may have stricter rules concerning nicotine content or additives, Finland may consider adjusting its regulations accordingly.
Finland’s effort to incorporate nicotine pouches into the Tobacco Act demonstrates a strong commitment to protecting public health and tackling illegal nicotine product activities. This regulation not only seeks to prevent minors’ access to potentially harmful substances but also aligns with regional goals in the Nordic area to effectively control such products. Ongoing evaluation and adaptation of these rules will be crucial to ensure their success in achieving the desired outcomes and keeping pace with developments in nicotine product regulation.
