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European measures show practical ways to reduce tobacco consumption and raise debate on possible adaptations in Brazil
The European Commission has recently advanced its tobacco control strategy by presenting a broad set of regulatory measures.
Additionally, the plan was structured with support from the World Health Organization (WHO), reinforcing the goal of reducing consumption.
At the same time, the proposal seeks to consolidate the concept of “tobacco-free generation”.
Therefore, the European movement has begun to be observed as a reference for other countries, including Brazil.
A European proposal that can inspire changes in Brazil
The document, released by the European press in 2024, details actions that can transform the smoking landscape.
In this sense, the measures were designed to directly target production, sale, and consumption.
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Among the main points, the following stand out:
- Reduction of the number of points of sale
- Increase in the minimum age for purchase
- Prohibition of new tobacco brands
- End of public incentives to the sector
Furthermore, these changes have been considered the most stringent since the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.
Consequently, experts believe that Brazil can observe these actions as a basis for future adjustments.
European plan gains global strength and reinforces WHO guidelines
At the same time, the European Commission confirmed that it will take the proposal to the COP 11, scheduled for November in Geneva.
In this context, around 180 countries are expected to participate in the international conference.
Thus, the goal will be to present a unified position on tobacco control.
Moreover, the strategy follows global WHO guidelines, which also guide Brazilian policies.
According to sources from the European community, Brussels projects the progressive elimination of tobacco within two decades.
In this way, Brazil can follow this international movement and assess impacts on public policies.
Economic impacts show challenges that also exist in Brazil
On the other hand, the economic effects are already appearing in Europe.
In Spain, data from the Ministry of Finance indicate 12,858 registered tobacco shops, with a decrease of 3.2% in the last decade.
With the new rules, the closure of establishments may accelerate.
This scenario, therefore, raises a relevant point for Brazil, where the tobacco trade also drives the local economy.
In addition, promotions and commercial incentives will be prohibited.
Consequently, Brazil may reflect on the balance between public health and economic impact.
Generation restriction opens debate on future policies in Brazil
At the same time, one of the most debated proposals involves the permanent generation restriction.
This measure has already been applied in the United Kingdom for people born after January 1, 2009.
If adopted on a large scale, access to tobacco will be gradually reduced.
Thus, Brazil may evaluate, in the future, similar policies within its legal context.
Additionally, stricter sanctions have been anticipated for consumption in public spaces.
In Spain, fines can reach 100 euros, according to a project approved in September 2024.
This increase in penalties indicates a more rigorous path of enforcement.
Therefore, Brazil may observe how these measures impact the behavior of the population.
Changes in product composition and control gain prominence
Simultaneously, the WHO and the European Commission proposed changes in the composition of cigarettes.
Among them, the reduction of nicotine levels stands out.
In addition, combustible products must be gradually eliminated.
The prohibition of slim cigarettes, often seen as less harmful, is also planned.
These measures seek to correct misconceptions.
Thus, Brazil can monitor the results of these changes to inform future regulatory decisions.
Expansion of smoke-free areas reinforces social impact
Finally, the plan includes the expansion of areas where smoking will be prohibited.
According to the Ministry of Health of Spain, led by Monica Garcia in 2024, new restrictions are under review.
Included locations are parks, terraces, stations, and outdoor events.
Additionally, vehicles with occupants may also be covered.
Experiences in regions such as Galicia and Catalonia have already shown positive results.
According to the National Institute of Statistics, more than 50 thousand annual deaths are linked to tobacco.
Experts highlight that limiting exposure reduces the onset of consumption among young people.
In light of this, Brazil can observe how these policies influence social habits and health outcomes.
Even with criticisms from the sector, the European Commission maintains that the benefits outweigh the economic impacts.
In light of this global scenario, should Brazil follow the same path or adapt these strategies to its own reality?
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