Dutch ban cigarette vending machines in anti-smoking policy expansion

The Dutch government is expanding its anti-smoking policy, State Secretary Martin van Rijn of Public Health informed parliament on Wednesday. From 2020 supermarkets may no longer display cigarettes and tobacco products, with other retailers following two years later. Cigarette vending machines will also be banned in restaurants and bars.

Gas stations, kiosks, convenience stores, drug stores and the like must have their tobacco related products out of sight by 2022. Only specialist tobacco stores will be allowed to display smoking products and accessories. The display ban also covers self-service items, such as vending machines. Self-service makes the purchase of cigarettes too easy and attractive, according to Van Rijn.

The display ban is intended to protect young people from the temptation to smoke. But it is also important for people who stopped smoking or want to quit, Van Rijn believes.