Belgium Approves Vape Flavor Ban with 2028 Implementation
The Belgian federal government has approved a ban on vape flavors, permitting the sale of only tobacco-flavored and unflavored vapes on the market. The Belgian government will notify the European Commission of this measure and plans for the relevant rules to take effect on September 1, 2028.
Key Points at a Glance
- The Belgian federal government has approved a ban on vape flavors.
- Starting in September 2028, only tobacco-flavored and unflavored vapes will be permitted for sale on the Belgian market.
- Belgian Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke stated that the measure aims to reduce addiction among young people.
- Belgium previously became the first EU country to ban single-use vapes by the end of 2024.
- Belgium will notify the European Commission of the measure, with the rules scheduled to take effect on September 1, 2028.
Government Confirms Nationwide Flavor Restrictions
May 6, 2026. According to a report by Politico, the Belgian federal government recently approved a ban on vape flavors.
Only Tobacco and Unflavored vapes are allowed from 2028
Under this measure, effective September 2028, only tobacco-flavored and unflavored vapes will be permitted for sale on the Belgian market.
Minister: Flavored vapes Target Youth Appeal
Belgian Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke stated that the measure is intended to protect the health of children and adolescents and to prevent a new generation from developing a dependency on tobacco.
Vandenbroucke asserted that, thanks to their appealing flavors, vapes are deliberately designed to entice young people to start smoking. He described this situation as “unacceptable and something that must stop.”
Criticism of Flavors Masking Harmful Substances
Vandenbroucke further criticized vapes as an “invention of a criminal industry,” claiming that they use flavors—such as mint, apple, popcorn, or raspberry—to mask harmful substances.
Belgium Aligns with the Netherlands on Vape Policy
The report notes that this measure aligns Belgium with the Netherlands.
The Netherlands has already restricted vapes to tobacco-flavored products only.
Dutch Data Shows Impact of Flavor Restrictions
The original report cites a study by the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), which indicates that the relevant Dutch policy has already had an impact: nearly two-fifths of users have reduced their vape consumption, while more than one-fifth have stopped using them entirely. According to reports, Belgium’s latest move follows recommendations put forward by its Superior Health Council in November 2025.
Health Council Recommends Limiting Vape Flavors
The Council recommended a drastic reduction in the range of permitted vape flavors, prioritizing the protection of minors over the preferences of adults.
Belgium Previously Banned Disposable vapes
This ban builds upon Belgium’s earlier crackdown measures. In late 2024, Belgium became the first EU member state to ban disposable vapes, while also tightening regulations regarding the locations where smoking and vaping are permitted.
Long-Term Goal: A Smoke-Free Generation by 2040
These measures form part of Belgium’s broader strategy to achieve a “smoke-free generation” by 2040.
Other EU Countries Implement Similar Restrictions
Reports indicate that other EU nations have also taken corresponding action; notably, Slovenia enacted a similar flavor ban in May 2024.
Next Step: Notification to the European Commission
Belgium will now formally notify the European Commission of this measure, with the new regulations scheduled to take effect on September 1, 2028.
