Every country has its own customs and traditions. This applies not only to food and drinks but also to snus. After this smokeless product spread worldwide, we began to notice various regional differences. While some leaned more towards traditional loose snus, others were attracted to interesting and less traditional flavours. What type of snus is popular in individual countries and what are its characteristics?  

The Popularity of Snus Worldwide Continues to Grow

Snus is nothing new. The first mentions of it can be found as early as the 15th century when Christopher Columbus encountered it on the island of Hispaniola (Haiti). However, its popularity began to grow during the 19th century when several brands emerged, some of which are still operating today. These include Röda Lacket, Ettan and  General.

The spread of snus during this time was halted by regulations and bans. Everything calmed down only in the 1960s, since when more and more customers have been seeking it out. They typically use it instead of cigarettes or largely replace them with it.  

The production of snus has significantly increased in recent years. This is confirmed by statistics from Euromonitor International, which state that the global snus market grew from 7,000 tons (in 2008) to almost 10,000 tons (in 2019). 

It is important to note that these global statistics are very general. Trends can vary significantly from country to country, both in terms of quantity and type of consumed snus. Therefore, in the following text, we will take a closer look at this fact.  

Snus in Europe

Snus is deeply rooted in the culture of European countries. This applies mainly to Sweden and Norway, where the best producers are located. And it was from there, several decades ago, that the trend of using smokeless products began to spread, subsequently reaching other parts of the world.  

Which European countries favour snus, and what trends prevail in them?  

  • Sweden – snus has a long history here, making it more popular than cigarettes or other tobacco products, smoked or smokeless. It is widely used and accepted by a large part of the population. The most prevalent products are the classics in loose snus from favourite and trusted local sellers, such as General or Siberia.
  • Norway – it is similar to Sweden. Norwegians accept and use snus to a large extent. Most of them prefer the loose version. Interestingly, snus in Norway represents an important part of culture and a relaxation “ritual”. Many enjoy it after work or during lunch breaks.   
  • Iceland – a significant portion of the population consumes snus here. Unlike Sweden and Norway, it is difficult to determine the exact type preferred by the residents. Usually, it is a combination of weaker and the world’s strongest chewing tobacco in various flavours. 
  • Finland – surprisingly, snus is not as popular in Finland as in other Nordic countries. However, this does not mean that people do not consume it. Quite the opposite. It also has a remarkable consumer base here.  
  • Denmark – along with snus, nicotine pouches with interesting flavours have become popular in Denmark in recent years. More and more consumers are turning to them.  
  • United Kingdom – several types of smokeless tobacco products are popular here. In most cases, high-quality snus from well-known and trusted brands, such as General, prevails.
  • Germany –Siberia, Skruf, Lyft, and Velo are among the most popular smokeless product brands in Germany.
  • Austria – snus is not deeply rooted in Austrian culture. However, its popularity is gradually increasing. Users mainly prefer practical pouches with interesting flavours. 
  • Switzerland – only a small portion of the population uses snus, but this segment is continually expanding. Quality Swedish brands prevail here, guaranteeing the best experience.  
  • Slovakia – similar to Austria or Switzerland, snus is not as widespread and rooted here. However, its consumption is gradually increasing. Preferred brands, flavours, and forms of snus vary – from loose snus to smaller (mini) or larger (large) pouches.
  • Other countries – information from other countries is limited, and it is not possible to generally determine the preferences of their residents. Most usually incline towards a combination of loose snus and snus in pouches with interesting flavours.  

In terms of brands, Europeans are closer to manufacturers from Europe. American products are sold less. 

Snus in America

Real snus made its way from Europe to America after Swedish immigrants emigrated there. They introduced it to the local population, laying the groundwork for a new tradition. In the American continent, we can distinguish differences between these countries and regions:  

  • United States – the largest representation is from the Camel brand, which produces snus in pouches in traditional and less traditional flavours. However, Swedish products, which users appreciate for their high quality, can also be found on the market.  
  • Canada – the popularity of snus is lower than in the USA. Users typically consume products from American brands.  
  • Mexico – snus is very popular here. According to data from 2022, its prevalence has also contributed to decrease in the smoking rate from 24% (in 2000) to 15% (in 2015), with an expected further decline to 10% by 2025. 
  • Brazil – the popularity of snus is similar to that in Mexico. Residents incline mainly to Swedish brands of ZYN and Swedish Match.  s

Snus in Asia

Generally, snus is widespread mainly in Europe and America. Asia lags significantly behind in comparison. Japan, China, India, Thailand, and Korea have various legislative or even cultural norms that significantly influence and reduce consumption. 

The highest consumption of snus can be observed in South Korea, where, also thanks to this, the smoking rate decreased from 35% in 2000 to 23% in 2015, with an expected further decrease to 18% by 2025.  

Snus in Africa

There is very little information available about snus in Africa, but several sources indicate that people have turned to it because it is cheaper than cigarettes. Therefore, economically disadvantaged groups usually use it, along with older generations. Younger individuals tend to seek “more modern” alternatives. 

The specific products Africans use are not entirely known, but generally, they prefer their own domestic brands.  

Snus in Australia

The prevalence of using smokeless products varies significantly across different regions of Australia. However, overall, it is low. This was confirmed by a 2019 survey, which showed that only 2.2% of smokers over 14 years old had used snus in the past 12 months. 

On the other hand, focusing only on the southern region, the rate of snus usage is significantly higher, reaching up to 72%.  

Impact of Geographic Environment and Climatic Conditions on Tobacco Cultivation

Several factors influence the popularity of snus, including culture, customs, legislation, and even climate. Climate, in particular, is often overlooked but should not be. This “minor” detail can influence tobacco cultivation and subsequently the taste of snus.

For example, brands in Nordic countries have very favourable conditions for cultivation, making their products highly popular. In contrast, in the United States, there are only a few selected areas where tobacco thrives, such as lowlands in northern Tennessee or western Kentucky.