Slovakia’s New Import Restrictions on Nicotine Pouches: A Barrier to Harm Reduction

February 19, 2025 – Slovakia has introduced new import restrictions on smoke-free tobacco products, including nicotine pouches, making it more difficult for travelers to bring these products into the country. While these changes may seem like a minor bureaucratic update, they could have serious consequences for harm reduction and consumer access to safer nicotine alternatives.

As of February 1, 2025, new limits have been placed on the duty-free personal import of smoke-free tobacco products (BTV) and other nicotine-related items (ITV) from non-EU countries. The revised legislation affects products such as heated tobacco, chewing tobacco, snuff, vape refills, and nicotine pouches. Under the new rules:

• Travelers arriving by land can bring in only two consumer packages of smoke-free tobacco products or nicotine pouches without paying import duties.
• Those arriving by air are allowed a fivefold increase in this limit, meaning they can bring in up to ten consumer packages.
• These allowances apply to a mix of eligible products, provided the total quantity does not exceed 100% of the permitted amount.

While these import limits align with Slovakia’s existing restrictions on traditional tobacco products, they pose a unique challenge for nicotine pouches and other harm-reduction tools. Unlike cigarettes, which remain widely available, nicotine pouches are not as easily accessible in Slovakia. Many consumers rely on personal imports to obtain their preferred alternatives, and these new restrictions could discourage smokers from switching to less harmful products.

The scientific consensus is clear: nicotine pouches and other smoke-free alternatives carry significantly fewer health risks than combustible tobacco. Policies that restrict access to these alternatives only serve to prolong smoking rates and make it harder for individuals to choose safer options.

For many, bringing nicotine pouches from abroad is not about bypassing regulations but about accessing products that support their harm-reduction journey. Restricting personal imports means that smokers looking to transition away from cigarettes may face unnecessary hurdles, potentially pushing them back to traditional smoking.

The changes also introduce logistical challenges for frequent travelers and those living near Slovakia’s borders. Unlike major cigarette brands, which dominate the market and remain readily available, nicotine pouches are still gaining traction in many European countries. The lack of widespread retail availability in Slovakia makes personal imports an essential option for consumers.

By limiting the amount of nicotine pouches that individuals can bring in for personal use, these rules unfairly penalize those seeking to quit smoking. Instead of embracing harm reduction, Slovakia’s new import restrictions create unnecessary obstacles that could discourage smokers from making the switch.

Governments should focus on promoting harm-reduction strategies rather than restricting access to safer alternatives. Instead of limiting nicotine pouches through stringent import restrictions, Slovakia could adopt policies that encourage their regulated sale and availability within the country. This would ensure that consumers have reliable, legal access to the products they need without having to navigate complicated import regulations.

For now, travelers to Slovakia should be aware of these new rules and plan accordingly. But in the long run, policymakers must recognize that restricting harm-reduction tools is not the way forward. Instead, the focus should be on providing clear, evidence-based regulations that support individuals in making healthier choices.

Are you affected by Slovakia’s new import limits? Do you think these restrictions are justified, or do they hinder harm reduction? Share your thoughts with us and help advocate for sensible policies that prioritize consumer choice and public health.