Attractive packaging, targeted advertising on social media and artificial flavors: According to the German Cancer Aid, the Action Alliance for Non-Smoking (ABNR) and the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), the tobacco and nicotine industry is using targeted strategies to appeal to young people in particular and make them addicted.

On the occasion of World No Tobacco Day on May 31, 2026 , the organizations are drawing attention to these practices with a poster. Gerd Nettekoven, board member of German Cancer Aid, explained that the decline in young smokers is a positive development, but will be offset by the increasing consumption of e-cigarettes. Almost 70 percent of e-cigarette users also smoked tobacco cigarettes. The industry not only sells products, but emotional stories that create trust and reduce skepticism.

Prof. Dr. Sabina Ulbricht, Chairwoman of the Board of the ABNR, called for a comprehensive ban on advertising e-cigarettes and other nicotine products on social media as well as a ban on flavorings and disposable e-cigarettes. Prof. Dr. Ute Mons from the DKFZ pleaded for standardised packaging that reduces the attractiveness of the products and places greater emphasis on health warnings. Eight EU countries have already implemented this.

The Action Alliance for Non-Smoking also calls for an annual significant increase in tobacco tax, protection against passive smoking, awareness campaigns and free cessation services in health care.

In Germany, more than one in four adults smokes. The rate is particularly high among young adults between the ages of 18 and 29. Tobacco consumption among minors has decreased, but e-cigarettes are gaining popularity.

The organizations see the current debate as an opportunity for a cultural change and call on politicians to restrict the marketing of harmful nicotine products more strongly in order to protect young people in particular from addiction.

Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

Gender Notice. The personal designations used in this text always refer equally to female, male and diverse persons. Double/triple naming and gendered designations are used for better readability ected.