Overview

• The draft proposes banning the manufacture, import, distribution and sale of filter cigarettes across the bloc, a move that would effectively remove most conventional products in countries like Germany.
• Further options under discussion include prohibiting e‑cigarettes and single‑use vapes, limiting sales to designated outlets, and introducing a smoke‑free‑generation cutoff date.
• Tobacconist and retailer associations have written to Ursula von der Leyen to voice urgent concerns, arguing the plans are disproportionate and could fuel illicit markets.
• Reports indicate the European Commission and some member states back tougher measures, while others oppose them, and officials say a common EU position is still being worked out.
• The proposals are slated for discussion at the WHO tobacco control conference (COP11) in Geneva on 17–22 November, and no binding EU decision has been taken.