Cancer Foundation Calls on Luxembourg to Put Health Before Tobacco Profits

The Cancer Foundation has accused Luxembourg of acting as “Europe’s tobacconist,” claiming the country prioritizes financial gain over citizens’ health. The statement comes amid EU plans to tighten tobacco taxation rules.

According to the Foundation, Finance Minister Gilles Roth expressed strong opposition to the European Commission’s proposal to raise taxes on nicotine products, describing the measures as excessive. The organization argues that such resistance undermines Europe’s collective efforts to reduce smoking and related diseases.

“The Grand Duchy continues to export cancer and weaken tobacco prevention policies in neighbouring countries,” the Foundation stated, referencing price hikes already implemented in France and Belgium.

The group urged Luxembourg to reconsider its stance and seek alternative revenue sources rather than relying on the sale of harmful products. Roth previously acknowledged the country’s dependence on tobacco income, noting that replacing this revenue in the short term would be difficult. Between 2023 and 2024, tobacco sales in Luxembourg rose by 17%.

Read More : Le Luxembourg défend ses intérêts financiers face aux nouvelles règles sur le tabac - L'essentiel

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