Customs authorities in Cyprus seize over 3,700 unauthorized nicotine pouches

Between November 2023 and early March 2026, the Cyprus Customs Department confiscated 3,728 nicotine pouches. These products lack legal authorization for sale in the Republic of Cyprus but continue to circulate in the market. Seizures were conducted through postal shipments, retail inspections, and passenger checks. Data indicates that 1,950 pouches were intercepted via mail and courier services, 1,533 were found in shops, 235 in luggage, and 10 at transit points. Regarding origins, 1,435 units originated from EU countries, 928 from third countries, and 1,365 were of unknown provenance. Authorities noted concerns regarding production standards and traceability as they seek to incorporate these items into tobacco control legislation. The rise in popularity is attributed to the discreet nature of the products, which are placed under the lip without producing smoke.