In a recent case that nearly escaped our attention, given that we’re usually following Competition Act developments, Health Canada’s tobacco inspectors seized more than 25 million units of little cigars and other tobacco products apparently destined for little people.
According to the Government, it wanted to “send a strong message that marketing tobacco to children and youth is unacceptable.”
In making the announcement, Health Canada said:
“Health Canada’s tobacco inspectors conducted simultaneous seizures of little cigars at three Quebec-based importers.
The Tobacco Act prohibits the retail sale of cigarettes, little cigars and blunt wraps packaged in less than 20 units.
The Act also bans the use of certain additives – including additives used to create flavours like chocolate and bubble gum – in cigarettes, little cigars and blunt wraps, or any suggestion on their packages that the products contain these additives.
These measures aim to protect children and youth from marketing practices that encourage them to use tobacco products.”
According to Health Canada, product lines seized, the first at the importer level since packaging requirements were changed following the amendment of the Tobacco Act by the Cracking Down on Tobacco Marketing Aimed at Youth Act, included Colts Smooth Taste Rum & Wine (from Groupe Tabac Scandinave), Neos Selection Chocolate (from Distribution GVA) and Prime Time Plus Peach (from Casa Cubana).
Health Canada: 1. Importers of tasty little cigars for little people: nil.
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