Regulation Guidelines for Tobacco-Free Nicotine Pouches in Poland

According to a news report from gazetaprawna on September 25th, British American Tobacco Trading Poland, Imperial Tobacco Poland, PMI Poland Distribution, and Swedish Match have signed market supervision guidelines for smokeless tobacco nicotine pouches. These guidelines establish standards for smokeless tobacco nicotine pouches. The agreement covers rules for marketing and communication that apply only to adults. It also suggests that each pouch should contain no more than 20 milligrams of nicotine. Health warnings should be placed on the packaging, and information about product ingredients, nicotine content, pouch weight, production date, and expiration date should be provided.

The guidelines were signed by manufacturers of smokeless nicotine pouches and established a regulatory framework within the Republic of Poland. These rules are voluntary and initiated by the industry itself.

Nicotine pouches, a smokeless alternative for smokers, have emerged as another option following the rise of e-cigarettes. These small pouches are filled with flavorings, nicotine, and a base typically made from cellulose. Unlike traditional tobacco products, they are designed for oral use, working by placing them between the gum and cheek or upper lip.

Currently, countries that are able to produce and sell nicotine pouches without tobacco include Poland, Sweden, Denmark, Italy, Latvia, Estonia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. As Poland lacks official regulatory policies in this regard, the industry has instead chosen to impose self-restraint.

Chairman of the Polish Republic Employer Management Committee, Rafał Dutkiewicz, stated in reference to the signed guidelines, "The guidelines signed today reflect the industry's collective approach to fundamental issues concerning smokeless nicotine pouches.

Dutkiewicz also highlighted the work of the Ministry of Finance in relation to the consumption tax. Currently, nicotine pouches are not subject to taxation. Despite the team meeting scheduled for July 27, 2023, to discuss the proposed amendment to the Consumption Tax Law, the amendment did not receive approval during this term of the House of Representatives.