The European Commission is contemplating substantial increases in excise duties on tobacco products, including a potential 258% hike on rolling tobacco and a 139% rise for cigarettes, according to an internal impact assessment. The document, obtained by POLITICO, also reveals plans to introduce EU-wide taxation on currently untaxed or inconsistently taxed items like vapes (e-cigarettes) and heated tobacco products.
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15 EU countries, including Germany & France, urge European Commission to update tobacco tax laws, impose vape levy & raise cigarette excise.
Read moreAs the European Union prepares to review its regulations on vaping products, several member states are already forging ahead with their own, often stricter, domestic agendas. Spain has emerged as a prominent example, with its government preparing a significant overhaul of national vaping laws by the end of 2025. However, the direction Madrid is taking, spearheaded by Health Minister Mónica García, is raising serious concerns among public health analysts and industry observers. Critics argue that Spain’s anti-vaping plan reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of vaping’s potential role in tobacco cessation and harm reduction, warning that its measures could paradoxically reverse the country’s progress in reducing smoking rates and the associated health benefits.
Read moreAustralia’s recent budgetary woes, with tobacco excise tax revenue nearly halved since 2019 and estimated cumulative losses of A$10 billion (€5.6 billion) by 2029, have been tied to the country’s thriving black markets for tobacco and nicotine products. Experts warn that this illicit trade boom is a direct consequence of Australia’s draconian approach to vaping regulation, which includes limiting the legal sale of vapes to pharmacies and implementing sweeping flavor bans.
Read moreThe regulation of vaping products across Europe presents a complex and often confusing picture for consumers, travelers, and businesses. While the European Union provides a baseline framework through its Tobacco Products Directive (TPD), individual nations – both EU members and non-members – have implemented a diverse array of national laws. This creates a patchwork of rules governing everything from product legality and sales restrictions to flavor availability, taxation, and where vaping is permitted. As of 2025, key trends include increasing restrictions on flavors and disposable devices, alongside a growing number of countries introducing specific excise taxes on vape products. This overview synthesizes the current state of vape regulations across Europe, drawing on official sources to provide clarity on this dynamic environment.
Read moreBelgium Becomes First EU Country to Ban Disposable Vapes, While Luxembourg, Estonia, and Czechia Report Highest Vaping Rates
As the European Union grapples with the public health challenges posed by the rise of electronic cigarettes and vaping products, a recent OECD report sheds light on the varying rates of vape consumption across the continent. While overall vaping rates in Europe remain relatively low, the data reveals a concerning trend among young people, with some countries reporting rates exceeding 10%.
Read moreThe European Union (EU) currently does not enforce a uniform vape tax across its 27 member states, leading to a varied landscape of taxation policies for e-cigarettes and related products. More than half of the EU countries have introduced taxes on e-liquids based on volume, categorizing them under consumption taxes. However, the tax rates and structures differ significantly across the region.
Read moreThe Polish government has announced plans to ban the sale of both disposable and reusable electronic cigarettes containing nicotine-free liquid to children and youth under 18 years of age. Health Minister Izabela Leszczyna informed the public about the upcoming legislation on Monday, stating that the Standing Committee of the Council of Ministers will adopt the bill on Thursday.
Read moreAs the summer months approach and the holiday season beckons, many vapers find themselves eager to embark on a European adventure. However, navigating the vaping landscape across different countries can be a daunting task. Fear not, intrepid travelers, for we have compiled the most comprehensive guide to vaping rules and regulations in Europe for 2024. Whether you’re wondering about e-liquid allowances, legal vaping zones, or airline policies, we’ve got you covered.
Read moreA coalition of prominent European waste and recycling associations is calling on the European Union to ban single-use e-cigarettes by the end of 2024. The groups cite growing concerns over the devices’ negative environmental impact and incompatibility with circular economy goals.
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