Key Takeaways
- Belgium’s federal government approved a ban on flavored vapes on Thursday.
- From September 2028, only tobacco-flavored and unflavored e-cigarettes will be allowed on the Belgian market.
- Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke said the measure aims to reduce youth addiction.
- Belgium was the first EU country to ban disposable vapes at the end of 2024.
- Belgium will notify the European Commission and aims for the rules to take effect on September 1, 2028.
2Firsts, May 6，2026
According to Politico, Belgium’s federal government on Thursday approved a ban on flavored vapes. Under the measure, only tobacco-flavored and unflavored e-cigarettes will be allowed on the Belgian market from September 2028.
Belgium said the ban aims to protect young people
Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke said in a press statement that the measure is intended to protect the health of children and young people and prevent a new generation from becoming dependent on tobacco.
Minister said flavored vapes attract young people
Vandenbroucke said vapes, with their attractive flavors, are deliberately designed to lure young people into smoking. He said that is unacceptable and must stop.
Minister criticized vapes for masking harmful substances
Vandenbroucke further described vaping as “an invention of a criminal industry” and said it masks harmful substances behind flavors such as mint, apple, popcorn or raspberry.
Belgium’s measure aligns with Dutch policy
The report said the measure brings Belgium in line with the Netherlands, which already restricts e-cigarettes to tobacco flavor only.
The report cited a study by the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, or RIVM, which suggests the policy has had an impact: nearly two-fifths of users cut back, while more than one in five quit entirely.
Belgian health council had recommended reducing allowed flavors
Belgium’s move follows a November 2025 recommendation from its Superior Health Council to sharply reduce allowed flavors, with youth protection taking priority over adult preferences.
The ban builds on an earlier crackdown. Belgium was the first EU country to outlaw disposable vapes at the end of 2024 and tightened rules on where smoking and vaping are allowed.
The report said this was part of a broader push toward a smoke-free generation by 2040.
Other EU countries have adopted similar measures
The report said other EU countries have followed suit, with Slovenia already adopting a comparable flavor ban in May 2024.
Belgium will now notify the European Commission and aims for the rules to take effect on September 1, 2028.
Image source: Politico
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