Crackdown on E-cigarette Violations in Belgium Sparks Controversy

Jan.07

Belgian authorities find half of e-cigarette businesses violating regulations, leading to impending bans on certain products and displays.

According to a report by Lavenir on January 6th, inspections conducted by the Belgian Federal Public Health Services Department (FPS Health) show that half of the e-cigarette vendors are engaging in violations. In Brussels, this percentage is as high as 80%. Furthermore, two-thirds of the inspections found that the ingredients of e-cigarettes did not comply with regulations.

According to reports, Belgium will ban the sale of disposable e-cigarettes starting in January 2025. From April 1, 2025, all stores nationwide will not be allowed to openly display tobacco products they sell. This means not only hiding brand logos, but also hiding the actual products.

Minister of Health Frank Vandenbroucke has stated that if the number of violations of the new regulations remains high, he will increase efforts to crack down on non-compliant businesses.

CD&V (Christian Democratic Party) member Els Van Hoof believes that more measures need to be taken to reduce the appeal of e-cigarettes, such as restricting the flavors available. She has recently introduced a bill in parliament which is currently under review.

References:

[1] Cigarettes électroniques: la moitié des vendeurs en infraction, un chiffre qui atteint 80% à Bruxelles

Also Read:

[1] Belgium to Ban Sale of Disposable E-Cigarettes in 2025

[2] Belgium's Nicotine Pouch Ban Fails to Curb Illegal Sales, Retailers Non-Compliant

[3] Belgium Eyes Stricter Penalties as 70% of Retailers Break Tobacco Sales Ban

[4] Belgium uncovers illegal cigarette factory, €6.2 million in tax losses

[5] Belgium to Strengthen Regulation on Tobacco and E-cigarette Sales

[6] Belgium Imposes Taxes on E-Cigarette Liquid, Users Turn to France

[7] Belgium to Ban Public Display of Tobacco Products in 2025

#Europe #Legislation #Disposable e-cigarettes #Belgium

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