New Rules, New Risks: What B2C Snus Retailers Need to Know in 2025
Published 2025-05-26 07:50 by Stina Rasmussen
Nicotine regulations are changing fast in 2025. For B2C retailers in the white snus category, staying compliant is not just a legal formality – it’s essential for maintaining market access and growth.
Below are key regulatory updates affecting nicotine pouch sales across major markets.
🇺🇸🇬🇧 Vaping Crackdowns = Snus Opportunity
As vape regulations tighten, nicotine pouches are gaining momentum. Consumers are shifting toward cleaner alternatives – and regulators are taking notice.
In the UK:
– Disposable vapes are banned nationwide from June 1, 2025.
– New laws are coming that may limit flavors, packaging, and how products are displayed in stores.
In the U.S.:
– Flavoured vapes (except tobacco/menthol) are now banned in key states like California and New York
– Kentucky prohibits all non-FDA-authorized vape products
– Meanwhile, 20 ZYN products just got FDA approval – a major win for pouches
What this means for you:
The pouch category is growing fast, but so are regulatory pressures. In volatile markets like the UK and U.S., you need agile supply partners who provide early updates and ensure compliance. Explore the full details here.
🇭🇺 Hungary: A Tight Market with Long-Term Ripples
Hungary’s revised nicotine pouch law took effect on March 29, 2024, and remains a defining force in 2025.
What changed?
– Only National Tobacco Shops (Nemzeti Dohánybolt) can sell pouches
– A heavy import tax favors local production
– Child-resistant packaging is now mandatory
What this means for you:
Hungary is now one of Europe’s most tightly controlled markets. If you're operating nearby or considering expansion, it’s wise to keep an eye on developments there. Local laws can change quickly – so it’s important that your products, packaging, and partnerships are flexible enough to adapt. Learn more here.
Still, remember that these rules apply within Hungary’s borders. Online sales, whether inside Hungary or to other countries, might follow different rules.
🇦🇪 UAE: Reopened, but Not Wide Open
The UAE technically lifted its ban on nicotine pouches in 2025 – but entering the market is anything but straightforward.
Here’s the catch:
– Regulatory approval is slow and inconsistent
– Products must pass HITS lab testing to enter
– Some big brands (like ZYN and VELO) got early access – everyone else is guessing what “compliant” really means
What this means for you:
Demand is rising, but entry is risky. Without a supplier that understands local regulatory processes, the UAE market could be more cost than return. Dig deeper into the details here.
🌍 Bigger Picture: Fair Market Access Is at Stake
In markets like Hungary and the UAE, we’re seeing dominant players exploit early access and insider knowledge to secure market share. This trend undermines fair competition and long-term category development.
That’s why organizations like the Global Institute for Novel Nicotine (GINN) are pushing for:
Transparent, fair regulation
Equal market access
Long-term category sustainability
At NordicPouch, we support these goals – because a healthy market benefits everyone, not just the biggest brands.
✅ What Retailers Should Do Now
If you're selling snus in 2025, here's how to stay compliant in 2025:
Stay informed – Rules are changing fast, and often quietly
Choose proactive partners – Work with distributors who share guidance early
Audit your compliance – Check your packaging, labels, and strength formats
Educate your customers – Be ready to explain changes (like VELO’s recent strength update)
Watch emerging markets – France, Germany, and others are on the brink of new regulation
Work With a Partner Who Sees Around Corners
At NordicPouch, we’re more than just Europe’s largest distributor of white snus. We’re your regulatory radar, category advisor, and growth partner.
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