The Indian government has instructed states to intensify enforcement against the sale of nicotine pouches, citing significant public health concerns. In a letter dated September 19 from the health ministry, seen by news agencies, authorities expressed alarm over the widespread availability of these products, which are often sold illegally through online platforms and local tobacco retailers.
Nicotine pouches, small sachets containing nicotine but no tobacco leaf, have gained global popularity as part of tobacco companies’ efforts to diversify beyond traditional cigarettes. They offer higher profit margins and currently face less stringent regulation compared to other nicotine replacement products. However, in India, where tobacco use accounts for approximately 1.35 million deaths annually, these pouches remain unauthorized and illegal.
The health ministry's directive emphasized the risks associated with nicotine pouches, particularly for individuals aged 18 to 40, among whom consumption is reportedly rising. Brands such as Philip Morris’ Zyn and Swedish Smokeless Solutions’ White Fox were specifically mentioned in a federal study released in June, which described nicotine pouches as “a largely unregulated public health concern.” The ministry underscored the heightened risk of nicotine exposure to children and urged state authorities to undertake search, seizure, and prosecution actions under existing drug laws to curb their distribution.
Though India has banned e-cigarettes, it permits approved nicotine replacement therapies like patches and gums. The government, however, maintains that nicotine pouches are addictive, pose independent health hazards, and lack scientific evidence as effective smoking cessation tools. Minutes from the Drugs Technical Advisory Board meeting on September 16 revealed a recommendation to refrain from approving any new nicotine formulations, emphasizing public health interests.
The issue gained additional attention following an investigation in April that uncovered sales of nicotine pouches at duty-free shops in Mumbai’s international airport managed by the Adani Group. The company denied any legal violations, but an Indian court recently upheld that domestic laws apply to duty-free outlets and rejected Adani’s claims of immunity. The court permitted the group to submit representations to the government to argue its case on the matter.
Philip Morris, whose website affirms a zero-tolerance policy towards illegal trade, and Swedish Smokeless, which advises consumers to purchase only from authorized sellers, did not respond to immediate requests for comment on the enforcement actions in India.
Internationally, organizations differ in their stance on nicotine pouch regulation. While the World Health Organization urges tighter restrictions, especially to protect youth, certain agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recognize that smokers switching completely to alternatives like nicotine pouches, vapes, or heated tobacco products may potentially reduce health risks compared to continued cigarette smoking.
India’s latest move reflects a cautious approach aimed at controlling the unregulated spread of nicotine pouches amid concerns about addiction and health impacts, particularly among younger populations.