As of April 1/2025, retailers in Belgium are no longer allowed to display tobacco products at points of sale, following an amendment to the consumer health protection law of January 24, 1977. The ban encompasses cigarettes, cigars, rolling papers, water pipe tobacco, and e-cigarettes, and prohibits the sale of these products in food stores larger than 400 square meters.
Read moreAs of 1/4/2025, Malaysia has put into effect a prohibition on displaying smoking products at point of sale counters, in accordance with Regulation 6 of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health (Sales Control) Regulations 2024. This move follows the enforcement of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852) and its related regulations and orders, which came into effect on October 1 of the previous year.
Read moreAs of April 1, 2025, Spain has implemented a new tax on vaping products, aiming to align the taxation of these items with that of traditional tobacco products. This measure, part of a broader tax reform outlined in Law 7/2024, is set to have a significant impact on consumers and the vaping industry as a whole.
Understanding the New Tax Structure
The new tax applies to all vaping liquids, bases, and nicotine kits, regardless of whether they contain nicotine. The tax rates are as follows:
- Vaping liquids without nicotine or with less than 15 mg/ml of nicotine: €0.15 + VAT per ml
- Liquids with more than 15 mg/ml of nicotine: €0.20 + VAT per ml
- VG/PG mix bases without nicotine: €0.15 + VAT per ml
- Nicotine kits:
- 18-20 mg/ml: €0.20 + VAT per ml
- 10 mg/ml: €0.15 + VAT per ml
To put this into perspective, a 10 ml container with a 10 mg/ml nicotine concentration will see a price increase of €1.50, while a product with a 20 mg/ml concentration will have a €2.00 increase.
The Impact on Consumers
The new tax will lead to significant price increases across various vaping products:
- 100 ml nicotine-free shortfill: +€18.15 including VAT
- 50 ml nicotine-free shortfill: +€9.08 including VAT
- 10 ml liquids: An increase between +€1.81 and +€2.42 including VAT
- Nicotine kits: Prices will approximately triple, with an increase of +€2.42 including VAT
- PG/VG mix bases without nicotine (1 liter): If the tax applies to these bases, the current price could increase by 14 times, adding +€181.15 in VAT and taxes
These price hikes will not only affect occasional vapers but also those who rely on vaping as a tool to quit smoking. Many consumers may find themselves exploring alternatives or turning to the unregulated market, which can pose significant health risks.
Adapting to the New Landscape
In light of these changes, consumers will need to be proactive in adapting to the new vaping landscape. Some strategies to consider include:
- Making purchases before the tax takes effect: If you have the means, stocking up on your preferred products before April 1 can help you save money in the short term.
- Opting for aromas and longfills: These formats, which allow you to create your own liquids, are not subject to the new tax. They may become more popular among vapers looking to save money while still enjoying their preferred flavors.
- Choosing 100% PG or 100% VG bases: As these bases are not suitable for vaping on their own, they are not subject to the new tax. Mixing your own liquids using these bases can be a more cost-effective option.
- Avoiding the illegal market: While it may be tempting to turn to unregulated sources for cheaper products, doing so can expose you to significant health risks. Stick to reputable, legal vendors to ensure the safety and quality of your vaping products.
The Future of Vaping in Spain
The introduction of this new tax marks a significant shift in Spain’s vaping industry. Specialized stores will need to adjust their offerings, potentially removing heavily taxed products like shortfills and promoting more affordable options like aromas and longfills.
It remains to be seen how consumers will respond to these changes in the long term. Some may choose to quit vaping altogether, while others may find ways to adapt and continue enjoying their preferred products.
As a consumer, staying informed about these changes and making smart, health-conscious choices will be crucial in navigating this new landscape. By understanding the tax structure, exploring alternatives, and supporting reputable vendors, you can continue to enjoy vaping while minimizing the financial impact of the new tax.
Starting April 1, 2025, more than 51,000 shops across Malaysia will be required to comply with a new ban on displaying tobacco products at sales counters. This move follows the enforcement of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852), which came into effect on October 1, 2024, along with its associated regulations and orders.
Read moreAs part of Belgium’s ongoing efforts to curb tobacco consumption, tobacconists throughout the country will be required to hide cigarettes from public view starting Tuesday, April 1st, 2025. This measure, originally slated for implementation on January 1st, was approved nearly two years ago by the Council of Ministers as part of a comprehensive anti-smoking plan.
Read moreIn an open letter to Chancellor Rachel Reeves, small retailers and corner shop owners from across the country have expressed their grave concerns about the Labour Government’s Spring Forecast and the proposed restrictions on advertising freedoms within the Tobacco and Vapes Bill. The letter, signed by prominent retailers such as Atul Sodha of Londis, Harefield, and Kay Patel of Global Food & Wine and Best-one, London, highlights the financial burdens and regulatory pressures that threaten the survival of their businesses.
Read moreThailand maintains some of the strictest vaping laws in the world. E-cigarettes (vapes) and related devices are banned in the country, and tourists should be aware of the serious legal risks of bringing or using them during their visit. The following guide explains the current legal status of vaping in Thailand, the laws behind the ban, penalties (with real examples), common misconceptions, recent crackdowns, and practical advice for travelers.
Read moreThe Government of Saskatchewan, Canada, introduced amendments to The Provincial Sales Tax Act, 2025 on March 24, aiming to remove the provincial sales tax (PST) exemption on vapour products. As of June 1, 2025, a six percent PST will be applied to all vapour products in the province, in addition to the existing vapour products tax, according to a provincial government news release.
Read moreThe Tennessee House Finance, Ways, and Means Committee recently passed House Bill 968, presented by Representative David Hawk, with a 12-1 majority on March 10, 2025. The bill proposes a 10% tax on all open-system vapor products and bans non-FDA-approved products, creating a registry of approved vapes and ensuring that only FDA-deemed acceptable products are sold in stores.
Read moreIn the first few months of 2025, several state legislatures have introduced bills to establish vapor product directories, signaling a growing interest in regulating the sale of these products. The states considering such legislation include Florida, Indiana, Missouri, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Virginia, with similar bills also introduced in Arizona, Hawaii, Iowa, Nebraska, New York, South Carolina, South Dakota, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia and Utah. Additionally, Oklahoma is looking to update its existing directory framework to align with these recent proposals.
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