The European Heart Network (EHN) has submitted its response to the European Commission’s call for evidence on the revision of the Tobacco Products Directive and Tobacco Advertising Directive.
In its response, EHN stresses that the revised EU tobacco control framework must reflect the rapid evolution of nicotine products and close existing regulatory loopholes. EHN highlights the growing evidence linking nicotine use to cardiovascular disease and calls for all nicotine products, including nicotine pouches, synthetic nicotine and future nicotine products, to be covered by the revised legislation.
EHN also calls for stronger measures to protect young people from nicotine addiction, including comprehensive restrictions on advertising and promotion, particularly on social media, plain and standardised packaging, larger health warnings, and a comprehensive ban on flavours across all tobacco and nicotine products.
In addition, EHN emphasises the need for a future-proof regulatory framework capable of addressing emerging products and preventing new loopholes. The response supports mandatory pre-market authorisation for new nicotine products and calls for full implementation of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, including protection from tobacco industry interference.
EHN will continue to engage in the revision process and contribute to the development of stronger EU tobacco control legislation that protects cardiovascular health and future generations.
Read EHN’s full response to the European Commission call for evidence.