Behind Vietnam's Lack of Love for Snus

As you've likely seen and experienced, snus and nicotine pouches from renowned brands like ZYN and VELO have been making waves in recent years, garnering attention in the media and among consumers alike. These innovative smokeless alternatives have been touted for their convenience, discreetness, and potential harm reduction compared to traditional smoking methods. In fact, the growing popularity of snus and nicotine pouches has been so pronounced that it's reshaping tobacco consumption trends in certain regions. In 2018, daily snus in the U.S has surpasses daily cigarettes use, as young people has been picking up on the snus and nicotine pouches craze. 

The global tobacco market has seen a surge in alternatives to traditional smoking, with snus and nicotine pouches emerging as popular options in many countries. However, in Vietnam, these smokeless alternatives have yet to make significant headway, lagging behind more entrenched products such as vapes, cigarettes, i-QOS, and thuốc lào. Let's explore the reasons behind this phenomenon with SnusLAB

Cultural Roots and Established Preferences

One of the primary factors contributing to the limited popularity of snus and nicotine pouches in Vietnam is the deeply ingrained cultural affinity for other tobacco products. Cigarettes, with their long-standing presence and ritualistic significance, hold a special place in Vietnamese society. Similarly, thuốc lào, steeped in tradition and heritage, remains a favored choice among certain ethnic groups. With generational cultural attachment to these products makes it challenging for newer alternatives like snus to gain acceptance.

Affordability Concerns

Another significant barrier to the widespread adoption of snus and nicotine pouches in Vietnam is their relatively high price point. Compared to traditional tobacco products like cigarettes and thuốc lào, which are often more affordable and accessible, snus and nicotine pouches are perceived as luxury items. In a country where many individuals are budget-conscious, especially given economic disparities, the cost factor presents a significant deterrent to trying out these alternatives. Another reason for the limited uptake of snus and nicotine pouches in Vietnam is the misconception that these products are only for the wealthy. This misconception can hinder potential users from exploring the benefits of these alternatives.

Competition from Established Alternatives

The presence of well-established alternatives further complicates the uptake of snus and nicotine pouches in Vietnam. Vapes, with their sleek designs and diverse flavors, have captured the attention of younger demographics, positioning themselves as modern alternatives to traditional smoking. Similarly, i-QOS, with its promise of reduced harm potential, appeals to tech-savvy consumers seeking innovative solutions. The competition from these alternatives leaves little room for snus and nicotine pouches to carve out a niche in the market.

Limited Awareness and Marketing

Additionally, limited awareness and marketing efforts contribute to the lack of traction for snus and nicotine pouches in Vietnam. Unlike other tobacco products that enjoy robust advertising and promotion, snus and nicotine pouches are relatively unknown to the average Vietnamese consumer. The lack of exposure and education about these alternatives further hinders their adoption, as many individuals may be unaware of their existence or benefits.