Read articles from Europe

December 08, 2025 by spanishnewstoday.com

Spain is considering a nationwide ban on smoking in outdoor spaces like terraces, parks, and playgrounds, including traditional cigarettes and e-cigarettes. The law, which has passed the draft stage, aims to extend existing restrictions, crack down on new smoking devices, and prohibit tobacco advertising. Fines could reach €600,000 for serious violations, impacting not only smokers but also establishments failing to enforce the ban. Public consultation and further legislative steps are needed before the law can take effect, stirring debate on the impact of these measures.

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.

December 04, 2025 by radio.cz

A new Czech law bans candy-flavored electronic cigarettes, giving stores seven months to sell existing stocks. The law aims to protect youth as over a quarter of young users prefer candy flavors. Experts warn that nicotine in e-cigarettes harms adolescent brain development, leading to addiction and behavioral issues. The ban targets flavors attracting minors, while adult users can still access other options. The move follows concerns that e-cigarettes increase smoking rates, especially among minors. Critics suggest enforcing existing laws against selling any cigarettes to minors. Addiction specialist Adam Kulhánek supports the ban on candy flavors to safeguard children's health.

December 04, 2025 by swissinfo.ch

Switzerland's failure to ratify the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control despite hosting WHO's headquarters allows the tobacco industry to wield significant influence. Despite COP11 decisions to tackle issues like environmental pollution and deceptive industry claims, the tobacco lobby continues to impede global tobacco control efforts. Switzerland's strong ties between the tobacco industry and politicians hinder progress, with the country ranking poorly in the Global Tobacco Industry Interference Index. The tobacco industry's active presence in policymaking highlights the weaknesses in Swiss tobacco control legislation, as seen through the watering down of key regulations. This contributes to Switzerland's low ranking in tobacco control policy implementation compared to other European countries.

December 03, 2025 by eureporter.co

Denmark’s EU Presidency has proposed a sharp tax increase on heated tobacco products in a last-minute revision of the Tobacco Excise Directive, favoring NGO anti-tobacco demands while ignoring member states’ concerns The new draft, circulated on 28 November, introduces higher minimum taxes, changes product definitions, and sparks criticism for bypassing democratic scrutiny Critics argue the “super tax” undermines harm-reduction goals and reflects advocacy more than EU state consensus.

December 03, 2025 by talkingretail.com

The convenience store trade body reaffirms responsible retailing commitment to Wes Streeting regarding illegal high-strength nicotine pouches. Highlighting the lack of official guidance, SGF emphasizes the need for clear standards in the sale and promotion of nicotine pouches to prevent sales to minors. It suggests industry-government collaboration to develop guidelines, advocating age restrictions in line with the Tobacco and Vapes Bill. SGF plans to engage with ministers and officials to address the issue. The organization also shares concerns with the Scottish government. SGF stresses that clear guidelines should ensure nicotine pouches are only sold to adults and not marketed to children. Reports of illegal high-strength products with over 100mg of nicotine raise further concerns.

December 03, 2025 by nltimes.nl

A study by Dutch doctors revealed that many Dutch teenagers are addicted to nicotine through vaping, with a third of those who smoked or vaped in the past year waking up at night to vape. The survey of 978 teenagers showed that 133 vape at night, indicating a high level of addiction. Experts are concerned about the serious nicotine addiction in young teens and the daily challenges it brings, such as restlessness, poor concentration, agitation, and emotional issues. They emphasize the importance of understanding and supporting addicted teenagers rather than punishing them.

December 03, 2025 by worldvapersalliance.com

The World Vapers’ Alliance opposes the proposed EU tax hike on heated tobacco and harm-reduction products, fearing it will deter smokers from switching and lead to negative health impacts. The tax plan risks dismissing public input and may fuel illicit trade. Director Michael Landl criticizes the tax as anti-scientific and likely to drive consumers back to smoking. Countries like Sweden, praised for low smoking rates due to affordable alternatives, serve as an example of successful harm reduction. The Alliance urges EU member states to reject the tax increase and prioritize evidence-based policy over ideology.

December 03, 2025 by dutchnews.nl

Dutch doctors found high nicotine addiction among teens, affecting over a third of young smokers who wake up needing nicotine. The study surveyed 978 pupils across five secondary schools, highlighting a concerning level of dependency starting at age 13. Researchers stress the need for restrictions on tobacco products and increased awareness among parents. E-cigarettes, widely used by teenagers, pose health risks due to their nicotine content. Night-time vaping can disrupt sleep, impacting mental health and academic performance. An anti-vaping campaign has been launched as cases of severe health issues related to vaping rise in the Netherlands.

December 01, 2025 by spectator.co.uk

In Europe, there is a growing focus on reducing tobacco use through generational smoking bans and stricter regulations. Philip Morris International aims for most of its revenue to come from smoke-free products like Zyn by 2030. A discussion sponsored by PMI explores how nicotine pouches can aid the shift to a smoke-free future, featuring perspectives from their chief communications officer and a Swedish MEP. The conversation delves into whether PMI's motives are genuine or business-driven, lessons from Sweden's smoke-free goals, and the scientific aspects. The Spectator maintains editorial independence in this sponsored podcast.