Brussels, April 29, 2014 – The EU has finalized its new regulations on tobacco (the revised Tobacco Products Directive).
Commenting on the publication of the new regulations today, Ben Townsend, Head of JTI’s EU Affairs Office said: “These regulations are wide-ranging and restrict the way products are made, packaged and sold. They will have a huge impact on millions of legitimate businesses across the EU, from farmers to packaging manufacturers, and tobacco producers to retailers. Given the very short timelines and costly changes required, clarity must now be given on the multiple measures contained in the TPD and subsequent implementation and delegated acts.”
“Make no mistake: these regulations will not achieve the public health benefits that law-makers have claimed. Legitimate businesses will suffer as excessive packaging requirements and banning entire product categories will benefit international criminal networks who will fill this supply gap.”