The Netherlands became a Party to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control on April 27, 2005.

Smoke Free Places: Smoking is prohibited in indoor workplaces, indoor public places, and public transport. Smoking is also prohibited in the outdoor premises of educational facilities (including primary, secondary, vocational, and higher education facilities).

Tobacco Advertising, Promotion and Sponsorship: Tobacco advertising and sponsorship is generally prohibited. However, there is an exemption for tobacco specialty stores. Tobacco advertising and product display is allowed at these stores subject to restrictions. All forms of tobacco sponsorship are prohibited.

Tobacco Packaging and Labeling: Smoked tobacco product packaging must carry one of 14 combined (picture/text) health warnings covering 65 percent of the front and back of the package. There are three sets of 14 combined health warnings. Each set must appear for one year and be succeeded by the next set. The 14 combined health warnings within each set must appear equally in a given year. In addition, tobacco product packaging must contain a general warning and informational message. Smokeless tobacco products must carry a single text health message covering 30 percent of the two largest surfaces. Misleading packaging and labeling, which could include terms such as “light” and “low tar” and other signs, is prohibited.

Tobacco Taxation and Prices: The World Health Organization recommends raising tobacco excise taxes so that they account for at least 70 percent of retail prices. Tobacco excise taxes in Netherlands are below these recommendations.