Shisha tobacco in larger quantities: The end of the 25g rule

The shisha community in Germany is breathing a sigh of relief – in the truest sense of the word. Since July 1, 2024, the strict regulation that required the sale of shisha tobacco in packs of a maximum of 25g has been officially lifted. This law, which originally came into force on January 1, 2021, had far-reaching consequences for the hookah industry, retailers and consumers. But why has this regulation been overturned, and what does that mean for the future of the shisha industry? In this article you will find out everything you need to know about this topic.

Background: The 25g regulation and its effects

The 25g regulation was introduced as part of the Tobacco Tax Modernization Act. The aim of this measure was to curb the consumption of shisha tobacco and protect the health of the population. Lawmakers argued that smaller packaging units would lead to more conscious consumer behavior. But the reality was different. Shisha lovers had to shop more frequently, which meant considerable additional effort for both consumers and retailers. Many consumers found the regulation to be restrictive, and retailers had to contend with enormous additional logistical effort.

Why was the 25g regulation overturned?

The abolition of the 25g regulation was a result of intensive discussions and pressure from various areas of society. A key factor was the realization that the regulation failed to achieve its original goal. Instead of reducing consumption, it simply shifted the problem: consumers bought more often, but not less. Economic aspects also played a role. Retailers and producers complained about lost sales and a decline in product variety, as many smaller suppliers were unable to sell their products economically in such small quantities.

What does this mean for the hookah industry?

With the lifting of the 25g regulation, the shisha industry is facing a potential upswing. Dealers can now offer larger quantities of shisha tobacco again, making both purchasing and selling easier. This could lead to a revival of product diversity, as smaller manufacturers can also establish themselves on the market again. For consumers, this means less effort when purchasing and possibly also lower prices due to larger packaging units.

Positive aspects

• Easier shopping: Shisha smokers can now buy larger quantities at once, saving time and money.
• More diverse product range: Retailers can once again offer a wider range, which increases the choice for customers.
• Economic boom: The industry could experience an economic boost through the return to larger packaging units.

Negative aspects

• Return of mass consumption: Critics fear that abolishing the regulation could cause consumption to rise again.
• Less protection for beginners: Smaller packaging units had the advantage that beginners did not have to immediately purchase large quantities.
• Tax challenges: Larger packaging could lead to tax adjustments, which in turn affect the price.

Conclusion: An opportunity for the shisha industry

The abolition of the 25g regulation offers the shisha industry in Germany new opportunities to develop. While there are some concerns about increased consumption, the benefits for retailers and consumers outweigh the negatives. The revival of the market, the simplification of purchasing and the ability to sell in larger quantities again could give the industry a significant boost. For hookah shops, this means they can restock their shelves with a larger selection of products and offer their customers a better shopping experience.