Belgian public health authorities report that over 140,000 disposable vapes have been seized since the ban on disposable vapes came into effect in January 2025. Nearly 600 official reports have been filed this year. 18 shops have been closed, and illegal products were found in 680 out of approximately 2,400 inspections.
Key Points at a Glance
- Seized Quantity: 140,019 disposable vapes seized in Belgium since 2025.
- Policy Background: Ban on the sale of disposable vapes effective January 1.
- Enforcement and Penalties: Maximum fine of €120,000; actual fines typically €800 to €1,000; shops can be temporarily closed.
- Enforcement Results: Nearly 600 official reports filed; 18 shops closed; illegal products found in 680 out of approximately 2,400 inspections.
- Regional Situation: Brussels had the highest violation rate, with nearly 60% of inspections finding violations; approximately one-fifth of inspected shops in Flanders were found to be in violation, leading to multiple closures.
Ban on Disposable Vapes Effective January 2025
December 31, 2025 – According to Belga News Agency. The Belgian Federal Public Health Department stated that 140,019 disposable vapes have been seized since the beginning of January 2025. This enforcement action follows the ban on the sale of disposable vapes. This came into effect on January 1, 2025.
Enforcement Actions and Penalties
Inspectors reported seizing a “large quantity” of illegal products. According to the report, fines for selling disposable vapes can reach up to €120,000, but in practice, they are usually between €800 and €1,000. Shops may also be temporarily closed as part of enforcement measures.
Inspection Results and Shop Closures
To date, the relevant authorities have filed nearly 600 official reports this year and have closed 18 shops. Inspectors conducted nearly 2,400 inspections of daytime and nighttime shops, newsstands, gas stations, supermarkets, and online stores, finding illegal disposable vapes in 680 inspections.
Regional Differences in Violation Rates
The report also stated that Brussels had the highest violation rate, with nearly 60% of inspections uncovering illegal disposable vapes. In Flanders, approximately one-fifth of the inspected shops were found to be illegally selling disposable vapes, leading to the closure of several shops in the region.
