Poland Introduces Excise Duty and Limits on Nicotine Pouches

Poland has taken significant steps to regulate the growing nicotine pouch market, introducing excise duties, nicotine-strength caps, and mandatory health warnings.

The new excise tax is set at PLN 150 (€35) per kilogram, with further increases planned in the coming years. Policymakers say the duty ensures fiscal fairness by treating pouches in line with other nicotine products, while also discouraging excessive use.

In addition, packaging now requires clear health warnings, and ultra-strong pouches have been restricted to reduce risks for younger and inexperienced users. Retailers must comply with stricter oversight, and enforcement agencies will be monitoring convenience outlets and online platforms more closely.

Public health groups welcomed the move, saying it will help control an expanding category and prevent aggressive marketing toward younger consumers. At the same time, harm reduction advocates caution that heavy taxation could push adult users toward cross-border or illicit sources, undermining the benefits pouches provide as safer alternatives to cigarettes.

The new framework reflects a wider trend across Europe. Finland, Denmark and Sweden have already introduced similar restrictions, while EU institutions continue to debate bloc-wide rules for nicotine alternatives.

For Poland, the law represents a balancing act. While consumer access remains, the government is signaling that nicotine pouches cannot operate outside the established regulatory environment. Advocates hope the approach will encourage responsible use while still allowing adult smokers access to less harmful products.

Further Reading:

This development mirrors other European shifts such as Finland’s Licensing Rules and EU’s Proposed Pouch Tax. For a harm reduction lens, check Tobacco Taxes and Harm Reduction: A European Crossroads.

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