EU Directive on Tobacco Products


The EU TPD came into force On 20th May 2016,  setting a number of clear measures to prevent people from using tobacco, with the aim to specifically protect further the younger generations.

Amongst the comprehensive list of measures, the Directive introduced a ban on cigarettes and roll-your-own (RYO) tobacco flavours, such as vanilla, strawberry or other candy, which are added to mask the taste and smell of tobacco and therefore make them more attractive to children and young people.

The mandatory electronic reporting on ingredients, combined with the replacement of the tar, nicotine and carbon monoxide (TNCO) labelling with the consistent message that “Tobacco smoke contains over 70 substances known to cause cancer” will additionally minimise the potential risk to mislead smokers with confusing information. See the fact sheet on Health Warnings.

The TPD further calls for standardised packaging with 65% of the package dedicated to larger graphic health warnings including photos, text and cessation information.

Useful links

DIRECTIVE 2014/40/EU

Implementing and delegated acts

EU Factsheets on

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