Danish Study Warns Proposed Nicotine Pouch Regulations Could Drive Up Smoking Rates, Economic Losses

Dec.05.2024
Danish Study Warns Proposed Nicotine Pouch Regulations Could Drive Up Smoking Rates, Economic Losses
A study reveals that Denmark's proposed nicotine pouch regulations may undermine the country's progress in reducing smoking rates since 2018 and predicts that by 2030, the Danish retail industry could lose up to $85 million.

On December 4, the American Tholos Foundation announced a groundbreaking study in collaboration with IPSOS and Harvard Business School Economics that reveals the risks of Denmark's proposed regulation to limit the nicotine content in pouches to 9 milligrams per pouch.

 

A study shows that if the proposal is implemented, half (50%) of current nicotine pouch users will choose other purchasing channels, including online platforms or buying across the borders of other EU countries; one-fifth (18%) of users may switch back to smoking; the proposal also threatens Denmark's achievement of reducing smoking rates from 19% in 2018 to 14% by 2023.

 

A study has found that three-quarters (75%) of users choose nicotine pouches for health reasons, primarily to reduce or quit smoking; one-third (33%) of adults believe these products are a safer alternative to cigarettes; proposed restrictions could severely undermine strategies to reduce smoking rates.

 

According to the study, if the new regulations are implemented, the retail industry in Denmark could lose 400 million Danish kroner (approximately 57 million US dollars) by 2025, with this loss potentially increasing to 600 million Danish kroner (85 million US dollars) by 2030. It is estimated that tax revenue will decrease from 296 million Danish kroner (42 million US dollars) in 2025 to 435 million Danish kroner (62 million US dollars) in 2030.

 

More than half of Danish adults oppose the proposed restrictions on nicotine, with 80% of users believing that nicotine pouches are crucial for keeping them away from cigarettes.

 

"These findings underscore the potential for significant consequences in terms of public health," said the Tholos Foundation's Director of Consumer Issues, Tim Andrews. 

 

"The proposed nicotine limit in nicotine pouches risks reversing hard-won progress in reducing smoking while creating new challenges, including black market growth and substantial economic losses."

 

We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.

Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn


Notice

1.  This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.

2.  The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

3.  This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.

4.  Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.

 

Copyright

 

This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.

For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com

 

AI Assistance Disclaimer

 

This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.

We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com

Singapore man, 21, assisting investigations after video allegedly shows him vaping on a bus
Singapore man, 21, assisting investigations after video allegedly shows him vaping on a bus
A 21-year-old man in Singapore is assisting with investigations after a video allegedly showing him vaping inside a bus went viral on social media. The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) said via its Instagram Stories that it had identified the man and seized e-vaporisers and 12 pods from his home on Feb 3. Vape-related penalties were strengthened from Sept 1, with first-time adult users liable to a $700 fine, and third-time offenders prosecuted and fined up to $2,000.
Feb.06
Focus on Regulation and Taxation: EVO NXT 2026 Provides Strategic Guidance for Decision-Makers
Focus on Regulation and Taxation: EVO NXT 2026 Provides Strategic Guidance for Decision-Makers
The NGP industry faces rising innovation pressure, growing consumer demand and intensifying regulatory dynamics. Sustainable growth now depends on reliable market intelligence, strong partnerships and structured dialogue with policymakers and stakeholders. On 17–18 April 2026 in Prague, EVO NXT will convene manufacturers, retailers, distributors and industry experts for strategic exchange, with this year’s conference placing regulation and taxation firmly at the center of discussion.
Mar.02
China’s E-Cigarette Exports Fall Slightly to USD 10.6 Billion in 2025, U.S. Market Further Consolidates Lead
China’s E-Cigarette Exports Fall Slightly to USD 10.6 Billion in 2025, U.S. Market Further Consolidates Lead
China’s e-cigarette exports totaled approximately USD 10.60 billion in 2025, down 3.3% year-on-year from USD 10.96 billion in 2024, according to annual trade data released by the General Administration of Customs of China. Despite the mild decline, exports remained firmly above the USD 10 billion mark, with a clear rebound in the fourth quarter.
Jan.20 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Singapore to Extend Etomidate Controls and Table New Vape Legislation in 2026
Singapore to Extend Etomidate Controls and Table New Vape Legislation in 2026
Singapore will maintain etomidate’s classification under drug control laws while preparing new legislation targeting e-vaporisers, as authorities reinforce a hardline regulatory stance on vaping.
Feb.05
Research Summary | NHANES Study: Smoking or E-Cigarette Use Linked to Higher Prevalence of Elevated Blood Pressure and Hypertension
Research Summary | NHANES Study: Smoking or E-Cigarette Use Linked to Higher Prevalence of Elevated Blood Pressure and Hypertension
A cross-sectional analysis based on the US NHANES 2021–2023 cycle, including 6,262 participants aged over 12, found that compared with people who neither smoke nor vape, those who smoke and/or use e-cigarettes had a higher prevalence of elevated blood pressure and hypertension. After full adjustment, smoking/vaping was associated with elevated blood pressure (aOR 1.34) and hypertension (aOR 1.46), and with a 1.05 mmHg higher diastolic blood pressure.
Feb.09 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Editorial says West Virginia’s HB 5437 “Vape Safety Act” goes too far, targeting residency and citizenship provisions
Editorial says West Virginia’s HB 5437 “Vape Safety Act” goes too far, targeting residency and citizenship provisions
A News and Sentinel editorial argues that West Virginia’s HB 5437, the “Vape Safety Act,” goes beyond reasonable regulation by adding provisions barring any part of a vape or smoke shop from being used as a residence and requiring owners to be U.S. citizens.
Feb.27 by 2FIRSTS.ai