Estonian Minister of Justice and Digital Development Liisa-Ly Pakosta has initiated amendments to the Tobacco Act to block online nicotine sales and curb youth vaping. The draft law, sent for coordination on July 17, targets the rapid rise of nicotine consumption among children by banning mail and courier deliveries of all tobacco and nicotine-related products.
Under current Estonian law, only sellers face prosecution for remote sales. The new rules shift liability to buyers, making it an offense the moment an order is placed. This change allows customs and supervisory authorities to act without needing to prove that a package was delivered or that the transaction was completed.
The proposal also restricts e-cigarette flavors. To reduce the appeal of vaping to minors, only tobacco and menthol flavors will be permitted. Sweet, fruit, and other youth-oriented additives will be banned entirely. Additionally, the government plans to set nicotine limits on nicotine pouches and strips, alongside packaging restrictions to prevent marketing to minors.
Beyond youth prevention, the bill introduces transparency rules for the tobacco lobby. Government agencies, members of parliament (Riigikogu), and local government officials must publish details of all meetings with tobacco industry lobbyists, including the date, topic, and participants.
Conversely, the bill offers relief to cigar businesses. Following a Supreme Court ruling that found the current fee structure unconstitutional, the government plans to lower certain state duties and fees on cigars.
The Ministry has requested feedback on the draft law from other ministries, health organizations, and educational institutions within seven business days.
