Sweden's aid and foreign trade minister Benjamin Dousa has sent a letter to French ministers seeking an exemption from the new white snus ban for Swedish tourists. The ban took effect on April 1, prohibiting use, possession, sale, and import. Dousa calls it a last attempt after other measures have been exhausted.
France implemented a total ban on white snus on April 1, covering use and possession. The law applies to visitors too, with unclear penalties – fines and prison are possible consequences.
Benjamin Dousa, Sweden's aid and foreign trade minister, addressed a letter to his counterpart Nicolas Forissier and industry minister Sébastien Martin. "We are trying to secure an exemption for tourists visiting France temporarily," Dousa says. He argues Swedish tourists pose no threat to the French population.
Dousa views it as reasonable to allow snus for personal use, as in most EU countries. "We have already used all tools in the toolbox," he adds about prior efforts. He hopes for a prompt response from Paris.
One million Swedish snus users are affected, and Dousa intends to monitor initial court rulings to gauge enforcement strictness.
