Cyprus parliament regulates sale of nicotine pouches

The Cyprus House of Representatives unanimously passed a law regulating the sale and distribution of nicotine pouches with 43 votes in favor. The bill, initiated by DIKO MP Chrysos Pantelidis, aims to address the previous lack of a regulatory framework for these products. Nicotine pouches are defined as tobacco-free oral products that do not require heating or combustion. Under the new legislation, these products are now treated similarly to other tobacco-related items, prohibiting sales to minors. Penalties for non-compliance include fines of up to 2,000 euros and potential imprisonment of up to six months. The Ministry of Health is expected to draft further regulations regarding product standards and nicotine content limits. The legislation seeks to curb smuggling, improve quality control, and generate tax revenue for the state. Previously, these products were sold without oversight, raising concerns regarding public health and youth access.