Where Are Nicotine Pouches Banned in Europe? A 2025 Legal Overview

Nicotine pouches are gaining popularity across Europe. However, several governments have prohibited or limited them. This article discusses the contexts in which these regulations are applicable and the rationale behind them. Understanding the legal status enables consumers to be informed and secure, particularly during travel or online purchases.

Key Points

• Nicotine pouch laws differ across Europe. 
• Some countries have full bans while others have strict limits. 
• There is no single EU law yet.

Why Are Some Countries Banning Nicotine Pouches?

Many governments are worried about nicotine use. Health experts say pouches may cause addiction, especially in young people. The long-term health effects are still unclear. Because of this, some countries treat nicotine pouches like tobacco.

Since there is no unified EU law for pouches, each country can decide its own rules. This has led to many different approaches across Europe.

In some countries, public health groups have asked for bans or limits. They say nicotine pouches are too easy for young people to get. Others argue that flavours attract teenagers.

Some countries want more studies before they allow full access. Until then, many are choosing to ban or limit pouches.

Countries That Have Fully Banned Nicotine Pouches 

Belgium

Belgium banned nicotine pouches in October 2023. The health ministry cited risks of youth addiction and similarities to snus. Sales are prohibited, but personal use by tourists is sometimes tolerated. Online black-market sales pose ongoing challenges for authorities enforcing the ban.

France

France announced a nicotine pouch ban in February 2025, pending EU approval. Concerns include youth appeal and rising intoxication cases (131 in 2022, up from 19 in 2020). The ban targets discreet use. Enforcement details remain unclear as the process continues.

The Netherlands

The Netherlands prohibited the retail selling of nicotine pouches at the beginning of January 2025. Prior regulations restricted nicotine levels.  Health professionals emphasize the dangers of addiction and the accessibility for children.  International online sales hinder enforcement, posing difficulties for authorities.

Russia

In 2024, Russia, a non-EU nation, prohibited nicotine pouches. Authorities see them as tobacco alternatives that pose health dangers.  Stringent regulations prohibit sales; nonetheless, illicit market access, particularly online, continues to thrive. Enforcement is uneven due to widespread unlawful distribution networks.

Countries With Partial Bans or Strict Limitations 

Germany

Germany regulates nicotine pouches as novel food products, leading to regional sales bans. Rules vary by state, causing confusion. Online sales often bypass restrictions, but authorities are tightening oversight. NEOpouches complies with local laws, offering legal options for users in permitted areas.

Czech Republic

The Czech Republic bans sales to under-18s and caps nicotine at 10mg per pouch since 2023. This balances harm reduction for smokers with youth protection. Retailers face strict compliance checks. NEOpouches provides compliant, discreet pouches for responsible use in this market.

Spain

Spain proposed a 0.99mg nicotine cap per pouch in 2025, effectively banning most products. Flavour bans, excluding tobacco, are planned. Six EU countries opposed, citing trade issues. The proposal awaits final approval, impacting availability. NEOpouches monitors developments to ensure compliance.

Denmark

From April 2026, Denmark restricts pouches to tobacco or menthol flavours and caps nicotine at 9mg per pouch. Taxes will match cigarette costs, and illegal sales to minors are targeted. NEOpouches offers compliant products, supporting responsible use in Denmark’s regulated market.

Finland, Latvia, Others

In Finland, the only flavours available are mint and menthol, and the maximum nicotine content per gram is 16.6 milligrams.  When it comes to nicotine, Latvia establishes a limit of 4 milligrams per gram and prohibits sales to anybody under the age of 20.  Several countries, including Poland, Austria, Hungary, and Luxembourg, are increasing regulations, such as prohibiting sales to minors and imposing advertising limitations.  

Compliance is something that NEOpouches assures throughout all of these markets.

What About the Rest of Europe?

As part of their overall safety standards, a few nations, including Sweden and Italy, permit nicotine pouches. As a result, the EU Tobacco Products Directive, which was most recently revised in 2014, does not include pouches, leaving the regulation of pouches up to the member states.  There are certain countries that impose excise taxes, such as Estonia and Latvia. 

In the year 2024, twelve health ministers demanded that the European Commission address pouches. These ministers included those from France and Germany. However, governments are keeping a careful eye on developments, even if there are no EU-wide laws in place yet.  Before making purchases or traveling with items, users should verify the rules of their respective localities.

A Rapidly Changing Legal Map

Europe’s nicotine pouch regulations vary widely. Belgium, France, the Netherlands, and Russia enforce full bans, while Germany, Denmark, and others impose caps or flavour limits. Travellers and buyers must verify local laws to avoid penalties. 

NEOpouches operates only in legal markets, offering discreet, nicotine options without tobacco. Stay informed about changing regulations, especially when purchasing internationally. Responsible use and compliance with national rules are essential for enjoying products of trusted brands safely and legally in permitted regions.

NEOpouches sells only in countries where these products are legal and regulated. We support clear rules and safe use.

Always follow your local laws. Stay informed. The legal map is changing, and fast.