New graphic warning library established

The European Commission has issued a draft delegated directive establishing a new library of 42 graphic warnings to be used as part of the revised EU Tobacco Products Directive agreed earlier this year.

Combined graphic and textual warnings are to be grouped into three sets with each set being used for a year and being rotated on an annual basis.

However, EU member states may exempt smoking tobacco products other than cigarettes, roll your own tobacco and waterpipe tobacco from the obligation to carry the combined health warnings.

The Commission is due to define the technical specifications for the layout, design and shape of the combined health warnings taking into account different pack shapes.

The delegated directive has not yet entered into force and could be the subject of objections from the European Parliament and/or the Council of Ministers.

But it is due to enter into force on the 20th day following its publication in the official journal of the EU.

Member states will have until May 20, 2016, to bring into force the laws, regulations and administrative provisions necessary to comply with the directive.