BACKGROUND AND IMPLEMENTATION CHALLENGES: Since the establishment of the National Prevention Agreement (2018), several tobacco control measures have been implemented in the Netherlands to realise a Smokefree Generation before 2040. Regulations have been drafted, to which citizens and organisations could respond via online consultations. The tobacco industry also responded, both directly and indirectly via related stakeholders.
INTERVENTION OR RESPONSE: The Health Funds for a Smokefree Netherlands wanted to gain insight into the arguments most commonly used by the tobacco industry. We instructed a research company to summarise and analyse the arguments used by the tobacco industry, between 2019 and 2022, to weaken, delay or block regulations.
RESULTS AND IMPACT: From the 4388 public responses to in total 17 online consultations, 4113 responses contain arguments against tobacco control regulations. Most responses argue that the specific measure is not effective, as well as arguing that e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products are a tool to quit smoking. Other common arguments relate to the economy, technical issues and illicit trade. Arguments are often substantiated with literature or examples from abroad. The tobacco industry tried to delay certain measures by pleading for a transition period. The consultation regarding the ban on e-cigarette flavours generated the most responses. This seems to be caused by tobacco industry campaigns to get e-cigarette users and retailers to speak up.
CONCLUSIONS: Most responses from the tobacco industry and its allies follow a specific pattern. They state that they fully support the government’s goal to achieve a Smokefree Generation, but that they are against the tobacco control measure(s) in question as a means to achieve this goal. Insight into the arguments most commonly used by the tobacco industry can help NGOs better prepare for industry interference and improve their advocacy strategies.