Belgium postpones terrace smoking ban
October 27, 2026 by politico.eu
Belgium postpones terrace smoking ban
Belgium has postponed its planned ban on smoking and vaping on café and restaurant terraces, originally scheduled for January 2027, following objections from the Council of State and concerns raised by the hospitality sector.
The delay gives policymakers an opportunity to reconsider how restrictions on smoking and vaping are applied. Protecting people from second-hand smoke remains an important public health objective, but regulation should also recognise differences in exposure and risk between combustible cigarettes and smoke-free alternatives. A proportionate approach can support smoke-free environments without overlooking tobacco harm reduction.
21.70% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 2.1 million current smokers in Belgium 24.70% of men are current smokers but only 18.90% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR
