TPD19220 - Advice for Officers dealing with imported tobacco products: Health labelling

All retail packs of tobacco products intended for sale in the UK must carry health warnings in the English language. This is not a Customs’ requirement, the relevant legislation is governed by the Department of Health. Health warnings are significant, however, because the absence of health warnings on tobacco products put up for retail sale will strongly suggest that the goods in question have been smuggled into the UK or diverted to home use. Note also that the health warnings must be printed onto the retail pack. Stick-on warnings or those printed on the cellophane outer wrapper are not acceptable, except in the case of cigars sold individually. Any cases of doubt may be referred to the Tobacco Team.