Dutch Government Opens Public Comment on Proposed Plain Packaging for Cigars
The Netherlands has launched a public consultation on a proposed plain packaging law for cigars. The measure aims to reduce youth appeal but has drawn strong opposition from cigar industry representatives.
After years of discussion, the Dutch government is now moving forward with its plain packaging plans for cigars—starting with a public comment period that runs until 13 August 2025.
The proposal, which would bring cigars under the same packaging restrictions as cigarettes and e-cigarettes, is intended to discourage tobacco use among young people. Officials argue that ornate cigar packaging is part of the problem, making cigars appear more attractive.
Under the draft legislation, retailers would be prohibited from displaying open boxes of cigars in-store. Outer packaging would need to feature a uniform health-warning sticker in a government-specified colour, and all tubes or tubos would have to be produced in a neutral tone.
Importantly, the proposal stops short of banning branded cigar bands—a requirement in countries like Australia and Ireland where plain packaging is already in force.
ECMA responce to plain packaging
The European Cigar Manufacturers Association (ECMA) has criticised the proposal, arguing it is both unjustified and disproportionate. Paul Varakas, ECMA’s director general, noted: “As niche and occasionally consumed products, cigars play no part in smoking initiation of young Dutch people.”
He added that, even in countries with existing plain packaging laws, cigar consumption has not increased and continues to decline. “For these reasons,” he said, “ECMA considers the introduction of plain packaging for cigars in parallel with e-cigarettes to be completely inappropriate and unjustified.”
The draft includes transition periods: six months for the import of non-compliant packaging and two years for retailers to sell through existing stock.
Consumers, retailers, and industry stakeholders are encouraged to submit their views before the comment window closes on 13 August. You can access the comment submission page here.
