Poland to Ban Sale of Nicotine-Free E-Cigarettes to Minors
The Polish government has announced plans to ban the sale of both disposable and reusable electronic cigarettes containing nicotine-free liquid to children and youth under 18 years of age. Health Minister Izabela Leszczyna informed the public about the upcoming legislation on Monday, stating that the Standing Committee of the Council of Ministers will adopt the bill on Thursday.
Changes in Access to E-Cigarettes
Previously, only e-cigarettes containing nicotine were prohibited for sale to minors. The new law will also ban the sale of these products in vending machines and online. Minister Leszczyna emphasized her commitment to preventing children and adolescents from developing the harmful habit of smoking.
Additional Measures to Curb Tobacco and E-Cigarette Use
Alongside the ban on nicotine-free e-cigarettes, the government is also implementing a European Union directive that prohibits flavors in novel tobacco products, such as flavored cigarettes for heaters. These products account for approximately 80% of the novel tobacco product market.
Furthermore, the government is working on increasing excise taxes on cigarettes, tobacco products, e-cigarette liquids, and novel products. The Council of Ministers recently adopted a draft amendment to the Excise Tax Act, which outlines gradual increases in excise rates for these products between 2025 and 2027.
The primary goal of the new excise tax rates is to reduce the consumption of tobacco products and their substitutes, particularly among minors.
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