Four major companies—British American Tobacco Trading Polska sp. z o.o., Imperial Tobacco Polska S.A., Philip Morris Polska Distribution sp. z o.o., and Swedish Match—have signed a market code that regulates standards for non-tobacco nicotine pouches in Poland. The code establishes a voluntary framework for self-regulation within the country, covering aspects such as consumer information and marketing communication principles.
Non-Tobacco Nicotine Pouches: A Smokeless Alternative
Non-tobacco nicotine pouches, alongside electronic cigarettes, offer smokers another smokeless alternative. These pouches contain flavorings, nicotine, and a substrate usually made from cellulose, but do not contain tobacco. Users place the pouches between the gum and cheek or upper lip for oral use.
Currently, non-tobacco nicotine pouches are available in several countries, including Poland, Sweden, Denmark, Italy, Latvia, Estonia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. As the trade in these pouches is not regulated in Poland, the industry decided to implement self-regulation.
Industry Collaboration and Future Regulations
Rafał Dutkiewicz, President of the Management Board of Employers of Poland, commented on the signing of the code, stating, "Today's signing of the code is an expression of the industry's shared perspective on fundamental issues in the non-tobacco nicotine pouch category."
Dutkiewicz also referred to ongoing work at the Ministry of Finance regarding excise tax. Currently, nicotine pouches are not subject to taxation. Although a team meeting to develop assumptions for amending the excise tax act in this regard took place on July 27, 2023, the amendment was not passed during the current term of the Sejm (lower house of parliament).
Key Points of the Market Code
The voluntary market code includes several key provisions:
- Principles for marketing communication, which should be directed exclusively to adults.
- Recommendations for nicotine content not exceeding 20 mg per pouch.
- Placement of health warnings on packaging.
- Inclusion of information on product ingredients, nicotine content, pouch weight, production date, and expiration date on packaging.
By establishing these voluntary standards, the four companies aim to promote responsible practices within the non-tobacco nicotine pouch market in Poland, even as formal regulations continue to develop.
