Read articles from Belgium

March 26, 2026 by belganewsagency.eu

Belgium is calling for stronger, more harmonized EU regulations on vaping amid growing concerns about health risks and youth uptake. Authorities warn that e-cigarettes contain a wide range of chemical substances that may pose risks when heated. Proposals include stricter controls on product composition, limits on flavours, and a potential EU-wide ban on disposable devices. The push highlights increasing pressure for coordinated action across the bloc to address inconsistencies in national regulations.

March 26, 2026 by tobaccoreporter.com

Belgium is intensifying its push for stricter EU-wide vaping regulations as concerns grow over rising use, particularly among young people. The country’s health minister argues that current rules are insufficient to address the scale of the issue and the evolving nature of nicotine products. Calls include tighter limits on ingredients, stronger restrictions on flavours, and broader measures targeting disposable e-cigarettes. The initiative reflects Belgium’s broader strategy of positioning itself as a leader in tobacco control within the European Union. At the core of the debate is how to balance public health protection with regulatory consistency across member states.

March 26, 2026 by aa.com.tr

Belgium is calling for stronger EU-wide action on vaping as concerns grow over rising use and potential health risks, particularly among young people. The country’s health minister has described vaping as an “epidemic,” warning that e-cigarettes contain numerous chemical substances that may pose risks when heated. Proposals include stricter limits on ingredients, tighter control of flavours, and a bloc-wide ban on disposable e-cigarettes, reflecting measures already introduced at national level. The push highlights increasing pressure for more harmonized regulations across the European Union, as current rules differ between member states. At the same time, EU officials emphasize the need for stronger cooperation and better use of scientific research to guide future policy decisions. The debate signals a broader shift toward stricter oversight of vaping products as part of evolving public health strategies in Europe.

March 23, 2026 by eureporter.co

Around 44.4% of cigarettes consumed in Belgium are not taxed domestically because they are imported or counterfeit. This leads to an estimated loss of more than 3.025 billion euros in excise duties and VAT revenues. The data comes from a recent study conducted for Cimabel, representing cigarette manufacturers in Belgium and Luxembourg. The figures cover the fourth quarter of 2025 and show a continuing rise in illegal tobacco consumption. This increase is significant compared to 34.9% recorded in the fourth quarter of 2024, indicating a rapidly growing problem.

December 05, 2025 by euronews.com

Belgium’s drug commissioner warned that most illegal refillable vape capsules seized in the country contain synthetic opioids. This means children using illegal vapes may unknowingly become addicted from a very young age. She explained that over 80% of seized capsules include these hidden drugs, which have no distinct smell or color. Experts worry that this could harm brain development and worsen addiction risks among teens.

November 19, 2025 by tobaccoreporter.com

Belgian Health Minister plans to ban non-tobacco vape flavors to prevent nicotine addiction in youth, following advice from the Superior Health Council. The move is influenced by the Netherlands' success in reducing vaping rates. Surveys indicate a rise in student e-cigarette use, prompting cancer charity Kom op tegen Kanker to broaden its anti-smoking efforts. Retailers oppose the ban, fearing an increase in illegal sales but support legal action. Vandenbroucke's proposal is part of efforts to curb vaping, building on previous restrictions. Timeline for enforcement is pending.

November 19, 2025 by belganewsagency.eu

Belgian Health minister Vandenbroucke aims to ban flavored vapes, except tobacco, to curb youth nicotine addiction. The move follows advice from the Superior Health Council and aims to reduce the appeal of vaping to children. The Netherlands already allows only tobacco flavor, resulting in decreased vaping and smoking rates. While some argue for certain flavors to help smokers quit, prioritizing youth protection is key. Vaping among students has surged, prompting the need for stricter enforcement. Despite opposition from industry groups, Vandenbroucke pushes for the ban's prompt implementation, building on previous measures to reduce youth smoking and vaping.

November 19, 2025 by news.az

Belgium plans to ban all vape flavors, except tobacco, to safeguard youth from nicotine addiction. Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke disclosed the decision following recommendations from the Superior Health Council to counter the rising trend of youth vaping. The ban aims to prevent children from being lured into vaping due to flavored e-cigarettes concealing its dangers. Surveys show an increase in youth vaping in Belgium, prompting stricter regulations. The government, yet to set an implementation date, targets to enforce the ban promptly. This action supplements existing anti-smoking measures to protect youth, such as prohibiting disposable vapes and smoking in areas frequented by young people.

November 19, 2025 by aa.com.tr

Belgium plans to ban all vape flavors except tobacco to prevent youth nicotine addiction, Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke announced after new advice from the Superior Health Council. The minister argues that flavored e-cigarettes are designed to attract children and hide vaping’s risks. The Council, which previously hesitated about a full ban, now supports stricter limits, prioritizing youth protection over potential benefits for smokers trying to quit. Surveys show a significant rise in vaping among Belgian students, with nearly one-third having tried e-cigarettes and weekly use now four times higher than five years ago. The government has not yet set a date for the ban, but Vandenbroucke wants it implemented as soon as possible.

November 19, 2025 by aa.com.tr

Belgium plans to ban all vape flavors except tobacco to prevent youth nicotine addiction, Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke announced after new advice from the Superior Health Council. The minister argues that flavored e-cigarettes are designed to attract children and hide vaping’s risks. The Council, which previously hesitated about a full ban, now supports stricter limits, prioritizing youth protection over potential benefits for smokers trying to quit. Surveys show a significant rise in vaping among Belgian students, with nearly one-third having tried e-cigarettes and weekly use now four times higher than five years ago. The government has not yet set a date for the ban, but Vandenbroucke wants it implemented as soon as possible.