Read articles from Europe

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.

November 18, 2025 by talkingretail.com

The UK experiences a decline in smoking, particularly in combustible products like cigarettes and rolling tobacco, with sales down 36%. Vape liquids are seeing growth, but value sales in convenience stores have decreased by 25%. Nicotine pouches are gaining popularity as smokers switch to alternatives, with convenience stores leading sales. Sales of disposable vapes have been banned, leading to an increase in reusable vapes causing disposal issues. Cigars and cigarillos are growing, with cigarillos dominating the market. The proposed generational ban on tobacco sales is predicted to increase illicit trade. Retailers are advised to diversify product offerings to meet consumer preferences.

November 17, 2025 by bbc.com

The ban on disposable vapes aims to reduce environmental damage and curb nicotine addiction. Despite the ban, young people in Hull have not significantly changed their vaping habits. The Office for National Statistics revealed a slight decrease in daily or occasional e-cigarette use among 16-24 year olds. The ban, part of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, intends to discourage youth vaping. While there are concerns about the attractiveness of vape flavors and packaging to young people, enforcement against illicit vapes is being strengthened. However, some worry that reusable vapes may still appeal to youths. Overall, the ban is seen as a success in reducing environmental impact, though its full impact on youth vaping remains to be seen.

November 17, 2025 by praguedaily.news

New Czech regulations from December aim to protect young people by banning e-cigarettes with sugar flavors and cannabinoids to reduce addiction potential. Manufacturers must sell off existing stock in seven months. A study by the State Health Institute shows a rise in e-cigarette use, especially among those aged 15-24. Regulations will now require clearer indication of nicotine content on packaging. Additionally, products must have warnings if nicotine-free and cannot contain oils, fats, cannabinoids, or sugar flavors. Information, including a Ministry of Health registration number, must be printed on products directly. The Ministry hopes these measures will deter children from using e-cigarettes.

November 17, 2025 by praguedaily.news

New Czech regulations from December aim to protect young people by banning e-cigarettes with sugar flavors and cannabinoids to reduce addiction potential. Manufacturers must sell off existing stock in seven months. A study by the State Health Institute shows a rise in e-cigarette use, especially among those aged 15-24. Regulations will now require clearer indication of nicotine content on packaging. Additionally, products must have warnings if nicotine-free and cannot contain oils, fats, cannabinoids, or sugar flavors. Information, including a Ministry of Health registration number, must be printed on products directly. The Ministry hopes these measures will deter children from using e-cigarettes.

November 17, 2025 by praguedaily.news

New Czech regulations from December aim to protect young people by banning e-cigarettes with sugar flavors and cannabinoids to reduce addiction potential. Manufacturers must sell off existing stock in seven months. A study by the State Health Institute shows a rise in e-cigarette use, especially among those aged 15-24. Regulations will now require clearer indication of nicotine content on packaging. Additionally, products must have warnings if nicotine-free and cannot contain oils, fats, cannabinoids, or sugar flavors. Information, including a Ministry of Health registration number, must be printed on products directly. The Ministry hopes these measures will deter children from using e-cigarettes.

November 17, 2025 by praguedaily.news

New Czech regulations from December aim to protect young people by banning e-cigarettes with sugar flavors and cannabinoids to reduce addiction potential. Manufacturers must sell off existing stock in seven months. A study by the State Health Institute shows a rise in e-cigarette use, especially among those aged 15-24. Regulations will now require clearer indication of nicotine content on packaging. Additionally, products must have warnings if nicotine-free and cannot contain oils, fats, cannabinoids, or sugar flavors. Information, including a Ministry of Health registration number, must be printed on products directly. The Ministry hopes these measures will deter children from using e-cigarettes.

November 17, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

Danish youth smoking rates hit record lows, with only 2.7% smoking daily, down from 15.4% in 2014, as per Aarhus University's survey. While cigarette use decreases, alternative nicotine product use rises, with a shift towards vapes and nicotine pouches as less harmful choices. These trends align with broader Nordic patterns, where e-cigarette and oral nicotine product use increases among youth. Denmark faces the challenge of regulating these products to curb youth access while acknowledging harm reduction benefits for adult smokers transitioning to non-combustible options. The data suggests a societal shift towards less harmful nicotine consumption among Danish youth.

November 12, 2025 by thesun.co.uk

Police find illegal cigarettes hidden under shelves during a search, leading to an ongoing issue costing the UK government £2.2 billion yearly. A recent operation in Blackburn seized £200,000 worth of illicit tobacco. The underground trade is associated with organized crime and counterfeit products, posing health risks due to non-compliance with UK regulations. The National Crime Agency crackdown reveals the alarming scale of illicit trade, involving small businesses and migrant networks. Experts warn of low risks and high profits driving criminals to this market. The public's demand for cheaper cigarettes fuels the illegal trade, with weak penalties failing to deter offenders. Recommendations include tougher measures to combat the growing illicit tobacco market linked to serious organized crime.