LATVIA – LEGISLATION
On Thursday, March 23, the Latvian Saeima approved in second reading amendments to the Law on Circulation of Tobacco Products that prohibit selling tobacco products, substitutes, herbal smoking products, electronic smoking devices and refillable containers to persons under 20 years old, the Saeima press service informs.
In addition, the amendments would prohibit e-cigarette liquids and tobacco substitutes containing flavourings from being placed on the market. There are also plans to restrict tobacco substitutes or electronic smoking devices that visually resemble sweets, snacks and toys from being placed on the tobacco products market.
The bill must undergo another vote before the amendments can take effect.
Health comes first!
Inga Berzinja, Chairman of the Seimas Social and Labour Commission, has previously stated that tax revenues from the sale of smoking products cannot be more important than human health and life.
In her assessment, it is especially important to take care of the health of the most vulnerable group in society – children and youth – by minimising the appeal of smoking products in their eyes.
The planned amendments are expected to introduce restrictions on tobacco use in public places, restrictions on marketing and advertising, sponsorship terms and packaging, substitute products, electronic smoking devices and tobacco refill containers. The law will also increase the penalties applicable to violations.
Currently, heated tobacco devices as well as substitute products are not regulated by law.
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