Tobacco Products Directive (TPD2) Update

Larger and mandatory pictorial health warnings

Graphic health warnings with photos, text and cessation information will cover 65% of the front and the back of cigarette and RYO packs.

Ban on cigarettes and RYO with characterising flavours

In the case of products with more than a 3% market share (egmenthol), the ban will apply as of 2020.

Replacement of TNCO labelling

The tar, nicotine and carbon monoxide (TNCO) labelling replaced by message “Tobacco smoke contains over 70 substances known to cause cancer”.

No more promotional or misleading packages

Slim packs and other irregular shaped packs will no longer be allowed. Packs containing less than 20 cigarettes are also banned.

Mandatory electronic reporting on ingredients

Standardised electronic format.

Safety and quality requirements for e-cigarettes

The Tobacco Products Directive does not ban e-cigarettes but imposes safety and quality requirements.

Packaging and labelling rules for e-cigarettes

List of ingredients on packs.

Monitoring and reporting of developments related to e-cigarettes

Possibility to ban cross-border distance sales

Retailers cannot sell across borders.

Measures to combat illicit trade

An EU-wide tracking and tracing system with visible and invisible elements (egholograms) to be introduced for cigarettes and roll-your-own tobacco in 2019 and for tobacco products other than cigarettes and roll-your-own tobacco in 2024.