Belgian Drug Commissioner Warns of Hidden Opioids in Illegal Vapes

Key Points

• 80% of illegal vape refills in Belgium contain synthetic opioids.
• Children risk early addiction and impaired brain development.
• Belgian health authorities propose a full ban on flavoured vapes.
• Synthetic drug chemicals mainly originate from China and India.
• Officials warn of the growing threat of Europe becoming a narco-state.

2Firsts, December 8, 2025 – Belgium’s drug commissioner Ine Van Wymersch has issued a grave warning that the majority of illegal vape refills seized in the country contain synthetic opioids, creating a major public health threat among young people.

Speaking to Euronews’ flagship program 12 Minutes With, Van Wymersch said:

“Of all the illegal refill capsules for vapes that we have seized in Belgium, more than 80% contain synthetic opioids, and they don’t have a specific smell or colour.”

She explained that these substances could lead to opioid addiction from an early age, impairing children’s brain development. Van Wymersch urged stronger measures to curb the misuse of logistics and chemical supply chains that facilitate such trafficking.

Belgium and the Netherlands are key production hubs for synthetic drugs, using chemicals imported from China and India. Van Wymersch said these chemicals, while legally produced for industrial and pharmaceutical use, are being diverted for illegal manufacturing.

Belgian Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke has proposed a total ban on flavoured vapes, arguing that criminal groups exploit fruity and candy-like flavours to lure minors. “I’m very happy that our Health Minister took steps toward banning these flavours soon,” Van Wymersch said.

She also raised concerns over the recruitment of vulnerable teenagers and unaccompanied minors by criminal organisations, which promise wealth and status in exchange for joining the drug trade.

Earlier this year, a Belgian judge warned the country risked becoming a narco-state as organised crime infiltrated its police and judicial systems. Van Wymersch cautioned:

“We are not a narco-state, but we really have to take action to prevent that we become one.”

Image source: Euronews