Dutch govt. investigates blank cigarette packets

The Dutch Ministries of Public Health and Economic Affairs are looking into using blank cigarette packages without manufacturers' logos, a spokesperson confirmed to NU.nl. The ministries hope that this will make buying cigarettes less attractive and thereby discourage smoking.

According to the spokesperson, blank packaging is one of the options being investigated. This is in response to demands from the Tweede Kamer, the lower house of Dutch parliament, that extra measures should be taken against attractive cigarette packs. Plans should be ready by October 1st.

Australia was the first country in the world to introduce blank cigarette packs in 2012, followed by France and the United Kingdom.