Product regulation in the European Union

Electronic cigarettes are regulated under the EU Tobacco Products Directive, currently under evaluation by the EU Commission. In some ways this has been positive – such as requirements that manufacturers use safe ingredients and manufacture to high standards. But many of its provisions hinder the public health opportunity electronic cigarettes offer for no material benefit to society. This paper explores product regulation for e-cigarettes and asks what kind of framework would best serve the public health imperative of getting smokers away from incandescent tobacco and encourage the development of a diverse range of products that can help the full spectrum of adult smokers.