Sweden praised for its stand against European restrictions on safer alternatives to smoking

STOCKHOLM – International health experts are applauding Sweden for opposing restrictions on safer alternatives to cigarettes in other EU member states and warn that blanket restrictions on nicotine products simply fuel the smoking epidemic.

The Swedish government has taken unprecedented action to challenge Spain’s proposed regulations on tobacco-free nicotine pouches, commonly known as “white snus”, which would severely limit consumer access to these reduced-risk products.

Foreign Trade Minister Benjamin Dousa announced that Sweden has submitted a “Detailed Opinion” to the European Union regarding Spain’s proposal – a powerful diplomatic tool that forces a three-month suspension of the Spanish regulation. This marks the first time Sweden has used this regulatory mechanism for nicotine-related issues.

“Sweden must be commended for acting to protect access to products that are saving lives around the world,” said Dr Delon Human, a global public health advocate and leader of Smoke Free Sweden.

“Spain’s extremely far-reaching proposal would remove most tobacco-free nicotine pouches from the market by imposing arbitrary nicotine limits and banning all flavours except tobacco, that would effectively condemn smokers to continue smoking far more harmful combustible cigarettes.

“Sweden has virtually eradicated smoking by providing adult smokers with less harmful alternatives that are accessible, acceptable and affordable.

“Its approach has resulted in the lowest smoking rates in Europe and significantly reduced tobacco-related mortality. We cannot stand by while other EU countries implement scientifically unfounded regulations that would push consumers back to cigarettes.”

Sweden has reduced its smoking rate to 5.3% through policies that recognise the relative risks of nicotine products and allow adult consumers access to less harmful alternatives. The average smoking rate in the European Union is almost five times higher than Sweden’s at 24%.

Minister Dousa promised that Sweden would not introduce any bans on pouches, so long as the government remains in power. He said Sweden is also considering similar action opposing French restrictions on nicotine pouches, further showing its commitment to rational harm reduction policies throughout Europe.

Smoke Free Sweden calls on the European Commission as well as member states to prioritise evidence-based regulation that distinguishes between combustible tobacco products and significantly less harmful alternatives.

Dr Human concluded: “We urge policymakers to focus on the end goal – reducing smoking-related deaths – rather than implementing blanket restrictions that protect cigarette markets.

“The stakes could not be higher. Every policy that restricts access to reduced-risk products inevitably benefits the cigarette industry and costs lives. Sweden’s stance against these disproportionate regulations represents a crucial defence of public health principles.”