Belgium to Ban Disposable E-Cigarettes Starting January 1, First EU Country to Do So

Dec 29, 2024, 11:36 AM

Belgium is set to ban the sale of disposable electronic cigarettes, also known as disposable vapes, starting January 1, becoming the first EU country to do so. This pioneering move within the European Union is driven by health and environmental concerns. Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke announced the decision, highlighting that these products pose a health threat, particularly to young people, by being an easy entry point to nicotine addiction. He noted that disposable e-cigarettes are designed to attract new consumers. Additionally, the ban addresses the environmental impact of disposable vapes, which contain plastic, batteries, and circuits that become hazardous waste. Belgium is urging the European Commission to update and modernize tobacco legislation across the EU, aiming to set a precedent for other nations to follow.