Spanish Government Considers Taxing Vape Products

spain tightens vape regulations

The Spanish government has unveiled plans to tax nicotine in e-cigarettes, also known as vape products, as part of its search for new tax revenue. This measure forms part of a broader fiscal reform currently under discussion in Congress.

New Taxes on Vape Products and Fuel Face Challenges

In addition to nicotine, the government is considering other taxes, such as increases on fuel and adjustments to corporate tax benefits. However, negotiations are proving difficult and have led to tensions with various coalition partners.

One of the most notable proposals is the tax on nicotine in e-cigarettes, which currently only pays VAT. The Ministry of Health previously proposed introducing a tax of €0.15 per milliliter of liquid, in line with the European average. The aim is to both discourage use and generate additional revenue for the state coffers.

The government also plans to increase fuel excise duties, but this proposal faces resistance from Basque and Catalan nationalist parties such as Junts and PNV. Previous attempts to equalize taxes on diesel and gasoline have already been rejected, and both parties now seem opposed to new fuel levies, jeopardizing the approval of this fiscal package.

Political Hurdles and Coalition Interests Complicate Reform

The government seeks to strike a balance between raising tax revenue and avoiding opposition from its coalition partners. According to the tax plan, the government wants to generate an additional 0.3% of GDP, around €4.5 billion, by increasing progressivity in the tax system. This revenue is essential to meet European demands for fiscal reform and obtain a portion of the €6.5 billion in European funds.

Negotiations remain ongoing as the government works to secure support for its fiscal reform package, which aims to boost state revenue while navigating the complex political landscape of coalition interests.

Matthew Ma
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