Norway’s Christian Democrats call for cap on cigarette pack sizes

The Christian Democratic Party (KrF) has raised concerns over the growing availability of 40-cigarette packs in Norway, often sold at a significant discount compared to standard 20-pack sizes.

KrF deputy leader Ida Lindtveit Røse told NTB that while Norway has a minimum pack size to limit accessibility, it should also consider introducing a maximum to curb bulk discounts. “It’s about price and availability—the same argument used to restrict small packs applies to these large ones,” she said.

A 40-pack of L&M Red was priced at 237.90 NOK in an Oslo Rema 1000 store on Wednesday, compared to 129.90 NOK for a 20-pack—a saving of roughly 8 percent, or 0.50 NOK per cigarette. Similar bulk discounts appear on Meny’s online store.

Røse argued that larger packs likely lead to increased consumption. “We aim for a tobacco-free society, but that requires action,” she said, noting that Health Minister Jan Christian Vestre (Labour) has ruled out an upper limit on pack sizes.

She pointed to Denmark and New Zealand, which have already capped pack sizes to reduce price incentives. “There was outrage when Norway’s smoking ban was introduced, but now we’re all glad it happened,” Røse added.

Asked about an ideal pack size, she said the focus should be on regularly reviewing new products to prevent lower prices and greater accessibility.