Belgian Health Ministry survey: Vape merchants in violation of the law by 50%
According to Lavenir on January 6, the Belgian Federal Public Health Service (FPS Health) reported that inspections showed that half of vape suppliers were operating illegally. In Brussels, the figure is as high as 80 percent. In addition, two-thirds of the inspections found that vape ingredients did not meet the requirements.
According to reports, from January 2025, Belgium will ban the sale of disposable vapes. From April 1, 2025, shops across the country will not be allowed to publicly display the tobacco products they sell. This means hiding not only the brand logo but also the actual merchandise.
Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke said he would step up efforts to crack down on offending businesses if the number of violations remained high.
Els Van Hoof, a member of parliament for the Christian People’s Party (CD&V), believes that more needs to be done to reduce the appeal of vapes, such as restricting the taste of vapes. She has introduced a bill that is currently under consideration in the House of Representatives.
Spain’s Health Ministry: law to be amended in 2025 to strengthen regulation of vapes
According to Spanish Health Minister Monica Garcia, 2024 is the year to lay the groundwork for “rebuilding the foundations of Spain’s health system.” Breakthroughs include the approval of tobacco control programs and primary care programs.
On April 30, the Council of Ministers adopted the Comprehensive Tobacco Prevention and Control Plan for 2024-2027. Many of the measures will be implemented by amending Act No. 28 of 2005 and Royal Law No. 579 of 2017. At present, the Ministry of Health has conducted a public consultation on the draft amendments to Royal Law 579 of 2017. The revision will involve the regulation of single-use vapes and their flavoring agents and plans to make the products less attractive to young people through standardized packaging.
Garcia also revealed that the Ministry of Health is working on amending Act No. 28 of 2005 and expects to hold public hearings early this year to expand the scope of smoke-free zones. The move, supported by the European Commission and the majority of the public, is intended to create healthier smoke-free environments.
