Ukraine Adopts New Security Standards for Tobacco Product Packaging

The Government of Ukraine has adopted Resolution No. 407, which establishes new technical requirements for security features to protect against unauthorized access to unit packets of tobacco products. This measure, published on 15 April 2025 and effective from 1 January 2026, outlines the types of authentication elements required for each tobacco pack. These elements must include at least five features, covering overt (visible), semi-covert (visible with simple tools), and covert (detectable only with specialized equipment) types. The regulation aims to align with EU standards (specifically Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2018/576) and ensure the authenticity and traceability of tobacco products throughout their lifecycle. The resolution also outlines the methods of application for these security features—affixing, printing, or a combination of both—and mandates that these features must not obscure health warnings or excise tax stamps. The Ministry of Economy is tasked with defining and updating the combination of authentication elements to be used, ensuring secure implementation via a designated state-owned enterprise. This initiative is part of broader efforts to combat illicit trade and enhance regulatory control over tobacco products in Ukraine.