Sweden's EU Minister Jessica Rosencrantz has urged France to exempt tourists from its ban on white snus. She raised the issue in a meeting in Paris on Monday with her French counterpart Benjamin Haddad. No individual snus users have been punished so far.
EU Minister Jessica Rosencrantz (M) raised France's ban on nicotine pouches, known as white snus, during a meeting with Benjamin Haddad in Paris on Monday. Sweden would prefer the law withdrawn entirely but primarily seeks an exemption for tourists.
"Of course Sweden would most like to see the law withdrawn, but above all we would like an exemption for Swedish tourists coming to France who should not risk heavy fines for bringing a can of white snus," Rosencrantz said. According to the minister, France shows understanding for Sweden's objections. She compared it to Sweden banning French wine.
Swedish MEPs are highly engaged. "French nannying in its worst form. Complete idiocy," said Tomas Tobé (M). Johan Danielsson (S) called the legislation unreasonable and unfair to adults bringing white snus for personal use. Social Democrats want the EU Commission to act, with a response expected next week.
The French ban took effect on April 1, prohibiting sales, use, and possession of nicotine pouches, with threats of fines and prison. Snus manufacturers have stopped selling, but no tourists have been reported punished. "Much remains unclear," Rosencrantz said.
