On Tuesday, during a press conference, Minister of wellness Izabela Leszczyna announced crucial changes to public wellness law. The Council of Ministers adopted draft amendments to the wellness Protection Act against the effects of tobacco and tobacco use, including the ban on the sale of e-cigarettes and nicotine bags to people under 18 and the introduction of excise duties on fresh non-tobacco products. In our opinion, the imposition of fresh taxes on Poles is intended to fix the budget deficit which the policy of the Law and Justice continued by Tusk in terms of unfounded sponsorships
Prohibition of the sale of Nicotine Products for Minors
The fresh government includes a ban on the sale of nicotine-containing e-cigarettes to children and adolescents by the age of 18, but besides non-nicotine versions and nicotine bags. "These are the same regulations as conventional or electronic cigarettes with nicotine," said the Minister of Health.
The Ministry besides introduces restrictions on the places where specified products can be used. According to the project, the ban on the usage of e-cigarettes and nicotine bags will apply in schools, wellness care facilities, sports facilities, restaurants, children's playgrounds and public buildings.
New Restrictions on Distribution and Advertising
The ban on the sale of nicotine-free e-cigarettes and nicotine bags besides applies to online commerce and vending machines. In addition, a ban on advertising and promotion of these products will be introduced. These actions aim to reduce their attractiveness, especially among children and young people.
"New regulations are intended to better defend the wellness of Poles – especially children and young people – from the harmful effects of tobacco and tobacco products. The proposed changes restrict access to these products, support the fight against nicotine addiction and advance healthier habits in society," the Ministry of wellness said.
Excise on Non-tobacco Products and Price Increase
Another crucial change is the imposition of excise duties on fresh tobacco-free products, including multiple e-cigarettes. According to the bill, from August 2025 all specified equipment will be subject to a excise work of PLN 40. After adding VAT, prices of multiple e-cigarettes, disposable equipment and tobacco heaters can increase by up to PLN 50.
The fresh rules are now due to go to the Sejm, where they will be subject to further legislative work. Government action aims to reduce nicotine dependence among younger generations and to reduce the attractiveness of specified products throughout society.
Summary: The Healthier Future of Poles
The draft amendments have already reached the Sejm and are awaiting further action. If the changes are accepted, Poland will join the European countries applying tightened wellness government against the effects of utilizing nicotine products and taxing its citizens with further taxes to fix the state's budget hole.
Read more:
Leschina announces fresh taxes and bans on the sale of e.cigarettes to minors