The Balearic Islands have expanded their network of smoke-free beaches, with Muro near Alcudia in northeast Mallorca and Port de Sant Miquel in Ibiza joining the “Smoke-free beaches, healthy beaches” campaign. This brings the total number of smoke-free beaches in the Balearics to 50, as part of a growing trend across Spain to promote healthy habits and protect the environment.
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The FDA’s recent leadership overhaul continues to send shockwaves through the agency, leaving a critical leadership vacuum and raising concerns about its ability to fulfill its mission of ensuring public health. On April 01, the FDA’s chief tobacco regulator, Brian King, was placed on administrative leave, marking the latest chapter in a sweeping purge that has affected multiple departments within the agency. The restructuring has particularly targeted the FDA’s tobacco division, which has been a focal point of debate over policies regarding vaping and e-cigarette regulation.
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.
Spain is currently facing a significant public health challenge with a smoking prevalence of 24%, one of the highest rates in Western Europe. In an effort to address this issue, the Spanish Ministry of Health has recently proposed a draft decree that includes strict regulations on vaping products and nicotine pouches. However, many experts argue that this approach is misguided and may ultimately undermine public health objectives while protecting the cigarette market.
Read moreThe European Commission is set to rule on the draft Royal Decree regulating certain aspects of tobacco products and their derivatives in Spain on April 28, 2025. The proposed legislation, spearheaded by the Spanish Ministry of Health, seeks to restrict the presence of flavors in electronic cigarettes and limit the nicotine concentration in nicotine pouches to 0.99 milligrams.
Read moreRecent data reveals a significant decrease in tobacco consumption in Spain, reaching the lowest levels in the past 30 years. This trend marks a crucial shift in citizens’ habits and reflects the positive impact of public health policies.
Read moreA recent study conducted by the Union of Promoters and Entrepreneurs of Vaping (UPEV) and Sigma Dos reveals that vaping has helped 90% of users either quit traditional tobacco or significantly reduce their consumption. The report, titled ‘Habit and Use of Electronic Cigarettes,’ surveyed vapers across four Spanish cities—Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville. It also found that 70% of ex-smokers who vape report improved health and feel motivated to quit nicotine entirely.
Read moreStarting April 1/2025, Spain will implement a new tax on e-cigarette liquids and nicotine pouches, as outlined in the Royal Decree-Law of December 23, commonly known as the Omnibus Decree. The tax aims to generate revenue while addressing public health concerns, but critics argue it could undermine harm reduction efforts for smokers.
Read moreOn December 21, 2024, the Spanish government published Law 7/2024, which introduces a new tax on liquids for electronic cigarettes and other products related to tobacco (the “new Tax”). This law is part of a broader package of measures that also includes a Complementary Tax to comply with the EU’s Pillar Two directive on minimum corporate taxation and a Tax on the interest and commission margin of certain financial entities.
Read moreDraft Royal Decree Aims to Regulate E-Cigarettes and Nicotine Pouches
Spain’s Ministry of Health has proposed a new royal decree that aims to ban flavored and aromatic vapes in an effort to steer the smoking devices away from the youngest sector of the population. The vaping craze has caught on among young people in Spain, causing issues with social interactions and becoming a gateway to smoking.
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