Regulation of flavoured smokeless tobacco in the South-East Asia Region

Abstract

Use of flavoured smokeless tobacco and flavoured betel nut products is highly prevalent in the countries of the WHO South-East Asia Region including Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar and Nepal. The additives and flavours are used to enhance the attractiveness and appeal of smokeless tobacco (‎SLT)‎ and related products containing betel nut. The flavours used for SLT in the Region are mostly traditional, unlike in developed countries. Information on flavoured SLT products is limited, making their regulation a challenge for countries. This document presents trends and other aspects related to SLT products in selected countries of the South-East Asia Region.