Plain packaging would violate international treaty obligations. Tobacco companies argue that plain packaging amounts to trademark infringement in violation of several international trade and intellectual property agreements. However, international law simply does not bear out these tobacco industry claims. Additionally, each of these treaties contains specific exemptions justifying State actions undertaken to protect public health. Conclusion Studies of youth, tobacco company spokespersons, and marketing experts confirm the importance of packaging to the appeal of tobacco.
Plain packaging is crucial in contributing to the informed consent of tobacco users.
Countries should consider plain packaging as an essential component of an effective tobacco control strategy. This fact sheet has been prepared for the UICC by Ms. Heather Selin and Mr. David Sweanor of the Non-Smokers' Rights Association, Canada. Report of the Standing committee on Health, June 1994, House of Commons, Ottawa, Canada, p. 6. Possible impacts of plain and generic packaging of tobacco products. Expert Panel Report prepared at the request of Health Canada, Ottawa, March 1995, p. 2.