The Spanish government is preparing to expand its list of public places where smoking traditional cigarettes and using vapes (e-cigarettes) will be prohibited, El Pais reports. This move aims to ensure healthier and more comfortable spaces for the entire population, with a particular focus on protecting vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women.
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Nearly one in five young people in Spain aged 14 to 18 (19.3%) are current smokers, with a significant portion also using e-cigarettes, according to new survey data from “Smoke-Free Week” presented by the Spanish Society of Family and Community Medicine (semFYC). The survey highlights a dramatic rise in vaping among this age group.
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 moreAn essential guide to Spain’s upcoming e-cigarette regulations, detailing public bans, product restrictions, fines, and what vapers must know.
Spain prepares to implement significant changes to its vaping laws. The government aims to tighten regulations on e-cigarettes. These new rules will reshape the vaping experience for residents and visitors alike. Minister Mónica García leads the Health Ministry’s comprehensive anti-vaping plan. Authorities expect to roll out this plan by late 2025.
Read moreSmoke Free Sweden Contrasts Spain’s High Smoking Rates with Sweden’s Harm Reduction Success
Spain’s restrictive approach towards safer, smoke-free nicotine alternatives like vapes is hindering its fight against smoking and putting thousands of lives at risk annually, according to a new report by Smoke Free Sweden. The report, titled “A Tale of Two Nations: Spain vs. Sweden,” starkly contrasts the public health outcomes of the two countries, attributing the differences to their divergent tobacco harm reduction strategies.
Read moreSix Nations Issue Formal Objections, Forcing Review Over Internal Market Concerns
Spain’s plan to tighten regulations on alternative tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches, has encountered significant opposition within the European Union. Six member states – Italy, Sweden, Greece, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Romania – have issued formal “reasoned opinions” against the proposed Spanish Royal Decree, citing concerns about its potential impact on the EU’s internal market.
Read moreThe 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.
Read moreThe 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.
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