Belgium will ban the sale of disposable e-cigarettes starting from January next year, citing concerns over children’s health issues and environmental damage caused by these products. This move makes Belgium the first country in the European Union to enforce such a ban.
The decision is part of Belgium’s national anti-smoking campaign. According to government data, a majority of young smokers develop their habit starting with e-cigarettes (Vapes) rather than traditional tobacco products.
Health minister Frank Vandenbroucke stated, as quoted by Reuters, that “the design of disposable e-cigarettes is aimed at attracting young people, drawing in those who may have never smoked before.”
Supporters of e-cigarettes argue that they can help individuals quit traditional tobacco products, but health authorities are concerned that their colorful designs and fruit flavors may appeal to children.
Selling e-cigarettes to individuals under 18 is illegal in Belgium.
According to a survey by the World Health Organization in 2022 of 20,000 Belgian adolescents aged 11 to 18, 12% reported using e-cigarettes in the past 30 days, more than double the rate in 2018.
Germany and France are currently drafting laws to ban disposable e-cigarettes. The UK, no longer an EU member, will also prohibit the sale of disposable e-cigarettes in June next year.
Belgium hopes that its ban will also reduce the environmental impact of disposable e-cigarettes, as discarded e-cigarettes contain plastic, chemicals, and non-rechargeable batteries.