Sweden on Track to Become Europe’s First Smoke-Free Nation as Snus and Nicotine Pouches Support Declining Smoking Rates

Dec.04

According to Gulf News, Sweden is nearing the World Health Organization’s smoke-free threshold, with daily smoking falling below 5%. Two decades of public health efforts and the growing use of lower-risk alternatives such as Snus and tobacco-free nicotine pouches have contributed to this shift, alongside declines in tobacco-related deaths and lung cancer cases.

2Firsts, 4 December 2025— According to Gulf News, Sweden is on course to become Europe’s first smoke-free nation as its daily smoking rate has dropped below the World Health Organization’s 5% benchmark. The rate fell from 15% in 2005 to 5.2% last year and has continued to decrease this year.

The report highlights that Sweden’s progress stems from sustained public health campaigns as well as the growing adoption of reduced-risk alternatives. Sweden is the only EU country that allows the commercial sale of Snus, and around 18% of the population uses Snus or similar nicotine products. Experts note that these products are not risk-free but are significantly less harmful than cigarettes.

Over the past decade, daily smoking has declined by 55%, while tobacco-related deaths among men have fallen by 38%, and lung cancer cases by 41%. Public health specialists say Sweden's combination of regulation, awareness, and safer alternatives offers a pragmatic model for countries seeking to reduce smoking prevalence.

Image source：Gulf News

References:

[1] Sweden to become Europe’s first smoke-free country

Also Read:

[1] 2Firsts Observation｜VELO at Stockholm Arlanda: Travel-Centric Messaging and Full-Line Flavour Presentation

[2] 2Firsts Research | ZYN Launches Limited-Edition Coffee Flavours and Can Engraving Service at Stockholm Arlanda Airport

[3] BAT Executive: Company’s Smokeless Products Outperform Cigarettes in Japan and UK, Over 70% Share in Sweden

[4] Sweden Promotes Nicotine Alternatives, Smoking Rate Set to Drop to Lowest in the EU

[5] Swedish Study: Nicotine Pouches Boost Smoking Cessation Rates Among Women by 200%

[6] Denssi's Global Strategy: Swedish Nicotine Pouch Brand Focuses on Flavor Innovation, Brand Storytelling in Africa and Middle East

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