Key Takeaways
- Under current Dutch rules, only trade in illegal e-cigarettes is banned, so NVWA can seize stock only after proving that trade has occurred.
- Health Minister Hermans is drafting a law that would also make possession of larger quantities of vapes illegal when likely intended for trade.
- The proposal is aimed at larger-scale possession rather than an individual carrying one vape, and the exact threshold has not yet been determined.
- Hermans also wants to raise the maximum fines for illegal vape trade, with current fines varying by violation type and repeat offenses.
- The Netherlands has already banned flavored vapes, and the governing coalition has also decided to raise the minimum age for buying all smoking products to 21, with that proposal still being developed.
2Firsts, April 13, 2026
According to Telegraaf, Dutch Health Minister Hermans is drafting a new law that would also ban possession of larger quantities of vapes, allowing the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) to intervene earlier.
Current law bans only illegal trade
The report said that at present only trade in illegal e-cigarettes is prohibited in the Netherlands, meaning NVWA can seize stock only after it has demonstrated that the products were being traded. To make earlier intervention possible, Hermans is now preparing legislation that would also prohibit possession in certain circumstances.
The proposal targets larger quantities likely intended for trade
According to the report, the measure is not aimed at someone possessing a single vape, but at possession of larger quantities that are likely intended for trade. The exact threshold is still being determined.
The Netherlands also plans to raise maximum fines for illegal vape sales
In addition to broadening the ban, Hermans hopes to deter dealers by increasing the maximum fines for illegal trade. The report noted that vapes are often offered through social media platforms such as Snapchat and TikTok. The Dutch government is still examining how high the fines should be.
Current fine levels vary depending on the type of violation and whether the offender has previously broken the rules. In cases linked to the flavored vape ban, fines can range from several hundred euros to nearly EUR 7,000. Hermans said those maximum amounts would in any case be increased substantially.
Flavored vape ban is already in place and purchase age proposal is being developed
The report also said the Dutch government had already introduced a ban on flavored vapes because such products make it more attractive for young people to start “smoking.” In addition, the governing coalition of D66, VVD, and CDA has decided to raise the minimum age for buying all smoking products to 21, although that proposal is still being worked out.
Image source: Telegraaf
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