According to the Portuguese media ECO, the subsidiary of Philip Morris International (PMI) in Portugal, Tabaqueira, stated that it will start selling nicotine pouch products in Portugal in 2026.
This move came after the Portuguese government included nicotine pouches in the list of “tobacco/nicotine-containing products” that are subject to a special consumption tax (IEC). Industry experts generally believe that the clarification of the tax regime has removed a key obstacle for the products to enter the formal sales channel.
It is reported that nicotine pouches are now available in some channels, but Tabaqueira will promote their official commercialization after the tax system adjustment, and is currently conducting a “soft launch/test sale” arrangement in two stores, and will then expand the coverage area.
Nicotine pouches do not contain tobacco themselves and are usually used by placing them on the gums; their concept is related to the traditional Swedish snus, but the latter contains tobacco and is banned in most EU member states (Sweden received an exception by joining the EU), while nicotine pouches are allowed for sale in most EU countries.
In terms of taxation, the Portuguese government expects that taxes related to tobacco will increase by 71 million euros (approximately 82.36 million US dollars), raising the total tax revenue to approximately 1.67 billion euros (approximately 1.937 billion US dollars).
Tabaqueira has approximately 1,500 employees in Portugal.