Biznes Fakty
Sales ban, there will be warnings in stores. There is a decision by the president
President Andrzej Duda has enacted legislation prohibiting the sale of all varieties of e-cigarettes – including those without nicotine – and nicotine pouches to individuals under 18 years old.
This pertains to a modification of the Act on the protection of health against the consequences of tobacco and tobacco product usage.
New requirements and restrictions for retailers
The modification imposes a prohibition on the sale of all types of e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches to anyone under 18 years of age.
In establishments where these products are sold, the following notice will be displayed: „It is illegal to sell tobacco products, nicotine pouches, electronic cigarettes or refill containers to individuals under 18 years of age.”
The sale of nicotine-free e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches through remote means, including online, as well as their promotion, will be banned. Electronic cigarettes, refill containers, and nicotine pouches will not be available in vending machines.
Limitations in public areas
Furthermore, nicotine-free e-cigarettes will be regarded similarly to products containing nicotine or tobacco – their use will be prohibited in areas where smoking is banned, such as at public transport stops, in eateries, on playgrounds for children, and in educational institutions.
It has been specified that the nicotine concentration in a nicotine pouch cannot exceed 20 mg/g.
Protecting youth health
„The amendment (…) is essential due to the pressing need to curb the usage of electronic cigarettes among young people,” the justification for the proposed amendment states.
„These products present a significant risk to public health, particularly to the youth and non-smokers, which calls for a prohibition on the sale of all types of electronic cigarettes and refill containers to individuals under 18 years of age, regardless of whether the product contains nicotine,” it was noted.
The amendment to the Act will take effect 14 days following its publication in the Journal of Laws.
