As of January 1, 2025, Belgium officially became the first country in the European Union to completely ban the sale of disposable electronic cigarettes (so-called “puffs”). This decision caused a wide public outcry and was perceived as a serious step in the fight against both smoking among young people and environmental pollution.
The ban applies to all disposable electronic devices with or without nicotine, regardless of flavor, brand or country of manufacture. Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke said the move was prompted by alarming data: the number of teenagers trying disposable vapes is rapidly increasing, with most of them unaware of the potential harm of nicotine and the chemicals contained in the vapor.
The Belgian government relies on two key reasons:
- Protecting the health of young people. Colorful packaging, fruit flavors, and aggressive marketing have made disposable vapes especially attractive to teenagers.
- Environmental protection. Disposable devices are made of plastic, batteries and toxic materials that cannot be recycled. They are often thrown into the trash or on the street, causing damage to the environment.
The ban applies to both offline stores and online trade. Violators face significant fines, and customs services have been instructed to block illegal consignments upon import.
Despite protests from some retailers and manufacturers, public support for the law was high. In surveys, more than 70% of Belgians expressed agreement with the authorities’ decision, especially among parents and educators.
What is important to know after the ban comes into force:
- The sale of any disposable vapes is prohibited.
- The import of such devices for personal use is prohibited.
- Reusable systems with content and dosage control are permitted.
- Violators face a fine of 1,000 euros.
- The law applies to all regions of Belgium, including Brussels, Wallonia and Flanders.
This step could become an example for other EU countries. Discussions about possible similar measures are already underway in France, the Netherlands and Germany.
The Ministry of Health said it plans to launch an information campaign on the dangers of vaping and strengthen prevention of nicotine addiction among teenagers in the coming months.
