Are nicotine pouches beyond the law? | Explained
Does COTPA cover nicotine pouches? Why are they not covered by the law banning vapes? Could nicotine pouches be treated as food under Indian law? Can they be legally imported into India? Can nicotine pouches be sold at duty-free shops?
- ✓Does COTPA cover nicotine pouches?
- ✓The study comes after a warning from the World Health Organization in May 2026 about the dangers these products pose.
- ✓Why are they not covered by the law banning vapes?
A new study led by the ICMR-National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research has found that nicotine pouches are reaching Indian cities through online platforms, hookah shops and gig delivery services. The study comes after a warning from the World Health Organization in May 2026 about the dangers these products pose. Yet it is far from settled which Indian law, if any, governs them.
The story so far:A new study led by the ICMR-National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research has found that nicotine pouches are reaching Indian cities through online platforms, hookah shops and gig delivery services. The study comes after a warning from the World Health Organization in May 2026 about the dangers these products pose. Yet it is far from settled which Indian law, if any, governs them.
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| Issuing Authority | The Hindu National |
|---|---|
| Topic Category | INDIA |
| Jurisdiction | All India / National |
| Publication Date | 8 September 2026 |