Nicotine Pouches Flowing to Middle East: Lebanese MP Calls on Regulations

Regulations by 2FIRSTS.ai
Aug.14.2024
Nicotine Pouches Flowing to Middle East: Lebanese MP Calls on Regulations
Lebanese MP warns about the introduction of Übbsmint nicotine pouches, raising concerns about public health and smuggling issues.

According to Lebanon Debate on August 13, MP Bilal Abdallah, the chairman of the Lebanese Parliament's Health Committee, issued a warning regarding the introduction of a new nicotine product called Übbsmint smooth nicotine pouches in Lebanon.

Nicotine Pouches Flowing to Middle East: Lebanese MP Calls on Regulations
Lebanon's geographical location


This warning was issued following a statement by Dr. Ghazi Zaatari, a prominent tobacco control advocate.


The lawmaker expressed concerns about such products entering the Lebanese market during an interview with the media.


We need to understand how these dangerous products are being imported. Our main objective is to increase taxes and fees on these items in accordance with international norms. If we prevent them from entering, there is a high likelihood they will be smuggled, which is a key issue we are currently addressing.


This product is highly popular among young people due to its high nicotine content. As a doctor, I warn of the dangers of this product, especially in Lebanon where smoking rates are high and cancer cases are on the rise.


The Ministry of Health is fulfilling its duties in extremely limited resources. Health Minister Dr. Firass Abiad is working tirelessly, mobilizing various unions and overseeing medicine supplies and hospital inspections. He is expected to visit hospitals and healthcare facilities in the Jbeil area next Thursday.


Übbs is a nicotine pouch manufacturer, and the brand was founded in the UK in 2022.


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2.  The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

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