EU Tobacco Tax Nicotine Pouches: Decision October 9, 2026

As of October 1, 2026 · Snustrend Editorial Team · Reading time approx. 6 minutes

In short: The EU finance ministers aim to reach a political agreement on the new tobacco tax directive on October 9, 2026. For the first time, EU-wide minimum taxes on Nicotine Pouches (proposal: 143 euros per kilo or 50% of the sale price) and E-Liquids (0.12 to 0.36 euros per ml) are to be implemented. Since all 27 states must agree and Sweden rejects the pouch tax, the outcome is uncertain. The rates would come into effect no earlier than 2028. Switzerland is not directly affected.

What is the EU Tobacco Tax about?

The EU taxes tobacco according to the Tobacco Tax Directive 2011/64/EU. It is 15 years old and does not recognize new products like Nicotine Pouches or e-cigarettes. Each country therefore taxes these products according to its own rules or not at all. The EU Commission proposed a revision in July 2025. It pursues three goals:

higher minimum taxes on cigarettes and fine-cut tobacco
for the first time minimum taxes on E-Liquids, heated tobacco products, and Nicotine Pouches
smaller tax differences between countries to reduce shopping tourism and smuggling

What minimum taxes does the EU propose?

The following rates come from the EU Commission's proposal of July 16, 2025. The higher of the two values applies in each case.

Product	Proposed Minimum Tax
Nicotine Pouches	143 € per kg or 50% of the sale price
E-Liquids up to 15 mg/ml nicotine	0.12 € per ml or 20% of the sale price
E-Liquids over 15 mg/ml nicotine	0.36 € per ml or 40% of the sale price
Heated tobacco products (e.g., sticks)	55% of the sale price or 108 € per 1000 pieces
Cigarettes	215 € per 1000 pieces and 63% of the average price

What does this mean for a can? A typical can of Nicotine Pouches weighs about 10 to 16 grams. At 143 € per kg, that would be about 1.40 to 2.30 € tax per can, unless the 50% rule is higher. For liquids with nicotine salt (usually 20 mg/ml), the higher rate of 0.36 € per ml would apply.

Why is October 9, 2026, important?

Tax matters in the EU are decided by the Council of Finance Ministers (ECOFIN), and unanimously. A first compromise from the Cypriot presidency did not succeed in June 2026. The Irish presidency now aims to reach a political agreement on October 9.

The points of contention:

Sweden rejects a high tax on Nicotine Pouches. There, snus and pouches are widespread and politically regarded as a smoking cessation aid.
Other countries want higher rates for health protection reasons.
It is also disputed how much leeway countries retain and how long the transition periods are.

If a country says no, everything remains the same. A watered-down compromise with lower rates and longer deadlines is considered more likely than the original proposal.

When would the new taxes apply?

According to the proposal, no earlier than 2028. A transition period of four years is planned for the new product groups: After two years, countries would have to collect at least half of the minimum rate, and after four years the full rate. Therefore, it is likely to be 2030 to 2032 before consumers in the EU feel the full effect at the checkout.

What does this mean for Switzerland?

Switzerland is not an EU member and does not have to adopt the directive. Prices in Swiss shops will not change directly due to the EU decision. However, there are three indirect effects:

Political pressure: Several parliamentarians in Switzerland are already calling for higher taxes on snus and e-cigarettes. An EU decision is likely to fuel this debate.
Cross-border commuters and travelers: If prices rise in Germany, France, or Italy, the price difference to Switzerland will increase. Note that Nicotine Pouches have been banned in France since April 1, 2026 and cannot be sold regularly in Germany.
Manufacturers and product range: Many brands (e.g., VELO, ZYN, Siberia) are planning their products for the European market. Higher EU taxes can also influence formats, can sizes, and prices outside the EU.

How are nicotine products taxed in Switzerland today?

According to the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (BAZG, as of March 2026), the following rates apply in Switzerland:

Product	Tobacco Tax Switzerland
Disposable e-cigarettes	CHF 1.00 per ml
Liquids for refillable devices	CHF 0.20 per ml
Chewing tobacco and snuff tobacco	10% of the retail price
Cigarettes	11.832 Rp. per piece plus 25% of the price (min. 21.21 Rp. per piece)

Additionally, there is a value-added tax of 8.1%. The significant difference between disposable (CHF 1.00/ml) and refillable systems (CHF 0.20/ml) makes pod systems cheaper compared to disposable vapes in the long run.

What should you do now?

Don't rush: On October 9, only a political principle decision will be made. Prices in Switzerland will not change as a result.
Inform yourself when traveling: Anyone taking pouches to France or Germany should know the local rules.
Choose strength wisely: Those who need fewer cans save regardless of taxes. Our guide on Nicotine Pouch strength in mg helps with the choice.

We will update this article as soon as the result from October 9 is known. An overview of Swiss regulations can be found in our article Tobacco and Nicotine in Switzerland: What applies in 2026 and what is planned for 2027.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Will Nicotine Pouches become more expensive in the EU?

Probably yes, but not immediately. If the EU states reach an agreement, the minimum tax will apply no earlier than 2028, with transition periods until about 2032.

How high is the proposed EU tax on Nicotine Pouches?

The EU Commission proposes at least 143 euros per kilogram or 50% of the sale price. A compromise with lower rates is possible.

Does the EU Tobacco Tax also apply in Switzerland?

No. Switzerland is not bound by the EU Tobacco Tax Directive. Swiss taxes are set by Parliament through the Tobacco Tax Act.

Are Nicotine Pouches taxed in Switzerland?

The BAZG classifies nicotine pouches as substitute products but does not specify a separate tax rate in its overview (as of March 2026). In contrast, e-cigarettes (CHF 1.00/ml disposable, CHF 0.20/ml liquid) and chewing and snuff tobacco (10%) are taxed.

Why can Sweden block the tax?

Because tax decisions in the EU must be unanimous. Each member state thus effectively has a veto right.

Sources

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal or tax advice. Nicotine products are only for adults aged 18 and over. Nicotine is addictive.

Discover now: View all Nicotine Pouches and Snus at Snustrend · View Vapes and Pod Systems