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September 15, 2025 by birminghammail.co.uk

A new bill in Spain aims to ban smoking and vaping at outdoor venues, sparking complaints from UK tourists who threaten to stop visiting. The proposed ban covers bars, restaurants, bus stops, stadiums, and beaches. Health Minister Monica Garcia emphasizes public health over private interests, advocating for cleaner air and longer lives. Some smokers express frustration, while others support the ban citing the nuisance of secondhand smoke. Concerns are raised about the impact on businesses and tourism, with some travelers already considering alternative destinations like Portugal.

September 15, 2025 by travelandleisureasia.com

Spain’s minority leftist government introduced a bill on September 9, 2025, that proposes to ban smoking and vaping at outdoor venues such as beaches, bar and restaurant terraces, bus stops, and stadiums. Officials say the move responds to the growing popularity of tobacco and e-cigarettes among young people. “We’ll always put public health ahead of private interests,” said Health Minister Monica Garcia. “Everyone has a right to breathe clean air … and live longer and better lives,” she added.

September 15, 2025 by euroweeklynews.com

Belgium will ban smoking and vaping on public terraces starting January 1, 2027. The measure aims to protect public health by preventing exposure to harmful smoke. The ban will also eliminate smoking rooms in various venues. Despite opposition, the government prioritizes health concerns over personal freedoms. This move aligns with a wider European trend of restricting smoking in public spaces. The country has seen a decline in cigarette use but a rise in e-cigarette usage. Businesses failing to comply with the new rules may face penalties.

September 11, 2025 by euronews.com

Spain's coalition government has passed a draft bill banning smoking and vaping in outdoor spaces, aiming to prioritize public health. This proposal has faced opposition from restaurant and bar owners. The ban includes various outdoor areas and targets a range of tobacco products. The legislation aligns with wider European efforts to curb smoking in public places. Spain aims to reduce tobacco-related deaths, though measures such as plain packaging are not currently included in the bill awaiting parliamentary approval.

September 10, 2025 by theguardian.com

The Spanish government approved a draft tobacco law banning smoking and vaping on bar terraces. The law prohibits minors from using vapes, single-use e-cigarettes, and other products, treating them like regular cigarettes. It extends to enclosed public spaces and outdoor areas like stadiums and educational facilities. The legislation aims to curb smoking-related cancer cases in a country where 140 people die daily from tobacco-related illnesses. While the bill doesn't yet include plain packaging or price hikes, the health ministry may push for these changes. Anti-tobacco groups advocate for plain packaging to deter smoking initiation, pointing out its success in other countries. Smoking rates in Spain stand at 28.9% for men and 22.6% for women.

September 10, 2025 by spanishnewstoday.com

Spain is set to tighten anti-smoking laws with new rules including fines for parents of minors caught smoking. The legislation also expands smoke-free zones to include outdoor areas like restaurant terraces, sports facilities, and playgrounds. The law treats e-cigarettes and other tobacco products the same as cigarettes. Additionally, marketing for tobacco and related products will be fully banned, with hefty penalties for violations. The bill is now under debate in the Council of Ministers and will move to congress for further review. The proposed law aims to reduce youth smoking rates and prevent tobacco-related deaths in Spain.

September 09, 2025 by rfi.fr

France will ban nicotine sachets, balls, and gum due to toxicity concerns and addiction risks, effective from March 2026. The ban follows the prohibition of disposable e-cigarettes and aims to protect young people from nicotine-related dangers. The government's decision has been praised by anti-tobacco associations as a crucial measure. Critics argue the ban may deprive adult smokers of regulated alternatives and fuel illegal drug trafficking. Nicotine pouches are said to cause poisonings, especially among children and adolescents, leading to severe health issues. The move reflects a shift in tobacco regulation to tackle addiction and public health concerns.

September 09, 2025 by devdiscourse.com

Spain's leftist government proposed a bill banning smoking in outdoor areas, including beaches and terraces, to improve public health. The legislation covers vaping and aims to protect citizens' right to clean air. Following France's lead, Spain looks to tackle high smoking rates despite parliamentary obstacles. Prioritizing public health, Spain seeks to enhance citizens' well-being and longevity.

September 09, 2025 by devdiscourse.com

Spain's leftist government proposed a bill banning smoking in outdoor areas, including beaches and terraces, to improve public health. The legislation covers vaping and aims to protect citizens' right to clean air. Following France's lead, Spain looks to tackle high smoking rates despite parliamentary obstacles. Prioritizing public health, Spain seeks to enhance citizens' well-being and longevity.

September 09, 2025 by cyprus-mail.com

Spain's leftist government proposed a bill to ban smoking at outdoor venues, including beaches and terraces, along with vapes. The Health Minister emphasized public health over private interests. The hospitality sector is concerned about the impact on popular outdoor smoking areas. The legislation is similar to France's ban, but Spain's exempts cafes and e-cigarettes. The bill aims to reduce smoking-related deaths, which average 137 per day in Spain. Plain tobacco packaging was not included in the final bill, despite being implemented in 25 countries. The parliament still needs to approve the bill in a country with high smoking rates.