Estonian Ministry Proposes Stricter Rules to Curb Youth Access to Tobacco Products

Estonia's Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs plans to introduce several new measures to reduce minors' access to tobacco products. The proposed regulations include limiting flavorings, increasing fines, and restricting the purchase of products from abroad. The ministry has drafted a bill aimed at reducing health risks associated with nicotine use and preventing illegal tobacco availability.

A study on tobacco and nicotine product use revealed that 57% of young respondents preferred e-cigarettes because of their pleasant taste, a factor particularly significant among 14- to 15-year-olds. To address this, the ministry wants to establish a clear list of approved flavorings and fragrances for nicotine products. Current laws only allow tobacco and menthol flavors in e-cigarette liquids, but the wording leads to constant disputes with manufacturers during enforcement.

The ministry also aims to control the purchase and sale of nicotine products from abroad. While a ban already exists, it is poorly enforced. Currently, uncontrolled products from third countries are being bought and sold, with compositions that may be especially harmful to young people and children, and no excise duties or fees are paid on them. Under the draft law, both sellers and buyers will face fines if caught, with the primary goal of curbing minors' access to nicotine-containing items.

Additionally, fines on businesses for rule violations are set to increase. The penalty will double for individuals who buy products listed in the Tobacco Act for minors or otherwise make them available to children. The draft stipulates that trading in tobacco products will only be permitted if all charges and fees have been settled, aiming to curb the black market and improve tax revenue. Products inspected by the Health Board will only be allowed for retail sale if state fees and assessment fees have been paid.

In the future, public authorities will be required to disclose meetings with lobbyists representing the tobacco industry, with the goal of making the industry's influence on policymaking transparent. The draft was sent for coordination on July 17, with a seven-working-day feedback period.