The Swedish government has submitted a formal diplomatic protest to Austria over proposed restrictions on white snus, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing dispute over tobacco regulations within the European Union. Austria is preparing legislation that would ban online sales of white snus, prohibit advertising and sponsorship, and regulate nicotine content. Swedish Aid and Foreign Trade Minister Benjamin Dousa announced that Sweden has filed a "detailed opinion" - the strongest diplomatic tool available - arguing that Austria's proposal negatively affects the free movement of goods within the EU.
"It is the toughest tool we have. The Swedish government stands up for snus. It is an important industry for Sweden and many Swedes use snus," Dousa stated in a press release.
It is the toughest tool we have. The Swedish government stands up for snus. It is an important industry for Sweden and many Swedes use snus,
" Austria is now required to respond to Sweden's formal protest under EU procedures.