Countries Where Snus is Fully Legal
- Sweden (exempt from EU ban)
- Norway (despite EU membership)
- United States (some state restrictions apply)
- Switzerland
- Russia/Ukraine (legal but regulated)
Major Restrictions & Bans
- EU countries (except Sweden) - banned since 1992
- UK - maintains post-Brexit ban
- Australia/NZ - banned without prescription
- Canada - only tobacco-free versions allowed
Key Legal Notes
- Nicotine pouches ≠ snus: Many countries banning traditional snus allow tobacco-free alternatives (like ZYN, Velo)
- Travel warnings: Some countries (e.g. Australia) fine for possession
- Swedish Match exception: Some US states only permit this specific brand
Why the EU Ban?
The 1992 prohibition followed WHO cancer concerns, despite Swedish data showing lower risks than smoking. Sweden kept exemption due to cultural heritage.
Current Trends
- Growing US popularity (especially among athletes)
- Increasing global sales of tobacco-free alternatives
- Ongoing debates about harm reduction vs. youth access