Belgian Vapers Flock to France for Cheaper E-Liquids
In the wake of Belgium’s new excise duties on vaping liquids, which took effect on January 1st, many Belgian vapers have begun crossing the border into France to purchase cheaper e-cigarettes and e-liquids. The French government has yet to implement a similar tax, making it an attractive destination for cost-conscious vapers.
The Impact of Belgium’s Excise Duties
Belgium’s excise duties on vaping liquids have led to significant price increases for consumers. A 10 ml bottle, which previously cost €5, now sells for €6.50, while a 50 ml bottle has jumped from €17 to €24.50. The government did provide a 6-month transition period to allow shops to sell off existing stock without the excise duty, but since July 1st, all vaping liquids in Belgium must bear a tax strip and are subject to both excise duty and VAT.
Belgian Shops Adapt to the New Reality
The increased prices have forced some Belgian vape shops to close their doors, while others have taken a more creative approach. Mélanie Robin, the manager of an e-cigarette store, made the decision to close her Belgian stores and open a new shop just across the French border.
“I have customers from Flanders, Luxembourg, Brussels,” Robin explains. “It seems like there are more Belgians than French in Givet. That sums it all up.”
As Belgian vapers continue to seek out more affordable options, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the growing trend of cross-border shopping. For now, however, it appears that the allure of cheaper e-liquids in France is proving too strong for many to resist.
New source: Face aux liquides de vapotage moins chers en France, les Belges traversent la frontière pour s’en procurer
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