Belgium to Ban Flavored Vapes by 2028
The Belgian federal government has officially approved a nationwide ban on flavored vapes, effective September 1, 2028. Driven by Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke, the legislation aims to protect youths from addiction by restricting the market exclusively to tobacco-flavored and unflavored e-cigarettes.
Vandenbroucke heavily criticized the vaping industry, describing it as “criminal” for using appealing flavors like mint, apple, and popcorn to mask harmful substances and deliberately target younger demographics.
The upcoming flavor ban stems from a November 2025 recommendation by Belgium’s Superior Health Council, which explicitly prioritized youth protection over adult consumer preferences. Belgium’s regulatory shift aligns with a growing European consensus on vaping restrictions:
- The Netherlands:Â Already restricts e-cigarettes to tobacco flavors. A Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) study showed this policy prompted nearly 40% of users to reduce consumption, while over 20% quit entirely.
- Slovenia:Â Adopted a comparable flavor ban earlier in May 2024.
- Domestic Action:Â Belgium previously led the EU by outlawing disposable vapes at the end of 2024 and has continuously tightened public smoking rules.
These aggressive measures are central to Belgium’s comprehensive strategy to achieve a smoke-free generation by 2040. The government is currently preparing to notify the European Commission to formalize the 2028 implementation date.
- Read more: European Flavor Vape Bans: Countries, Rules & Impact
- News Source: Belgium to ban flavored vapes from 2028
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