The European Commission’s annual work programme, set to be unveiled next week, reportedly excludes any discussion on updating the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD). This decision comes as a surprise to vaping industry professionals, who have been anticipating potential regulatory changes in 2025.
In November 2024, Ilze Juhansone, Secretary-General of the European Commission, hinted that the evaluation of the EU’s tobacco control framework would be reviewed in 2025. However, recent reports from Contexte, a French and European political news outlet, suggest this review has been postponed. The delay offers temporary relief to the vaping sector, which has faced mounting regulatory pressures.
The vaping industry has been on edge due to several regulatory proposals. Earlier this year, 16 EU member states urged the European Commission to introduce a new law taxing all vaping products. Additionally, during a European Council meeting last summer, 12 countries proposed banning most e-liquid flavors, citing public health concerns.
These proposals have sparked widespread debate. Advocates argue that stricter regulations could curb youth vaping, while opponents warn that excessive restrictions might push consumers toward unregulated markets or traditional cigarettes.
- Read more: TRPR and TPD UK Regulations for Vaping Devices and E-Liquids
The absence of TPD discussions in 2025 provides a temporary reprieve for the vaping sector. However, industry stakeholders remain cautious. The delay does not eliminate the possibility of future regulations, and the vaping community must continue to advocate for balanced, evidence-based policies.