The Danish government has initiated a thorough investigation into how to reduce the number of retail locations where tobacco and nicotine products are sold, aiming to protect children and young people from exposure to these harmful substances. The analysis, expected to be completed in August 2026, will provide models for reducing points of sale and will also consider the consequences for businesses.

Currently, tobacco and nicotine products are widely available in approximately 7,000 physical stores, including supermarkets, kiosks, and petrol stations. The government believes that stricter regulation is necessary due to the highly addictive nature of these products and the impact of accessibility on consumption.

Minister for the Interior and Health Sophie Løhde stated that the government is open to considering various options, including a licensing scheme for retailers or a ban on sales from certain types of shops or at specific times. The goal is to regulate the sale of tobacco and nicotine, which is virtually unregulated today.

Jesper Lundberg, chairman of Nærbutikkernes Landsforening, a trade association for kiosks and convenience stores, expressed concern about the potential consequences for small shops if the sale of nicotine and tobacco is restricted. He noted that for many of these stores, these products account for half of their turnover, and restrictions could lead to closures.

Lundberg added that while convenience stores and kiosks support efforts to combat young people’s use of addictive products, they believe that focusing on controlling illegal trade and online sales is crucial. He argues that as long as there is demand, sales should be maintained through legal channels.