Consumer organisations representing vape and nicotine pouch users across Europe have urged the Swedish government to reject a proposed EU compromise on harmonised nicotine taxation, warning it could undermine harm reduction and drive consumers back to smoking.

In an open letter signed by nine consumer-driven groups, including the World Vapers’ Alliance, EU4Snus and the Consumer Choice Centre, the organisations called on Sweden to “say no to the compromise now being discussed in the Council” and “use the right of veto” if necessary.

Impact on smoke-free alternatives

The groups said many of their members rely on e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches to remain smoke-free and warned that higher taxes on these products would reduce the financial incentive to switch from cigarettes.

“If the price difference between cigarettes and smokeless alternatives is reduced, an important incentive for many to remain smoke-free is also reduced,” the letter states.

They also criticised language in the compromise text referring to “avoiding taxation that leads consumers to switch from cigarettes to other products”, arguing this would actively discourage smokers from moving to lower-risk alternatives.

Read the full text here