We believe that this initiative is a step in the right direction and can deliver tangible results in our shared objective of protecting minors and selling products only to adult smokers. This measure is a concrete expression of our desire to tighten the framework around the sale of tobacco and new nicotine products (vaping, nicotine sachets) rather than banning them.

I'd like to make it clear that the nicotine pouches marketed by BAT France are not a tobacco product, as they contain no tobacco, unlike “snus”, which is prohibited. Our products are designed and intended to help adult smokers find an effective long-term alternative.

As with all our products, our position is constant and firm on this point: nicotine products are for adult smokers only. We believe that if we really want to reduce the health risks associated with tobacco products, we need to offer products that are attractive to adult smokers and make them available where they usually buy their cigarettes. Health groups should support this approach, rather than erecting barriers.”

This measure would be devastating for smokers seeking an alternative to tobacco. It goes against the objectives set by the previous government in the National Plan for Tobacco Control. The government's role is to ensure the safety and efficacy of products, not to bias consumer choice.

Indeed, alternatives, such as nicotine pouches, can play a role in reducing the harm caused by combustible products and contribute to the goal of a tobacco-free generation.

In fact, illicit sales of products with much too high concentrations and labels attractive to minors will only increase.

In the absence of a legislative framework, BAT France has done more to ensure that these products are marketed responsibly by retailers and sold after appropriate age verification.

It's time for government, public health and industry to work together to find viable solutions. These efforts should focus on strictly controlling minors' access to these products, while offering adult smokers legal alternatives to tobacco.

This ban, if it comes to pass, will be devastating for smokers looking for an alternative. The French Minister of Health, who appeared before the Parliament, seems to want to cut short existing debates on the regulation of pouches and similar tobacco-free products.

The only way to protect minors from access to these products is not to ban them, but to build a responsible and appropriate regulatory framework.

We all agree that minors must be prevented from having access to tobacco and nicotine products, contrary to WHO claims. To achieve this, it is essential to establish a balanced regulatory framework that enforces existing age restrictions for all nicotine products, while continuing to offer adults less harmful alternatives.

New reduced risk products to cigarettes, including vapes and nicotine pouches are key to unlocking Government smoke-free targets - targets we support. We are clear on our responsibilities, and therefore want to have an open conversation about appropriate regulation that will tackle underage use while keeping smokeless alternatives like vapes and nicotine pouches as a vital tool to help adult smokers switch.