Health minister plans major vape flavour ban to protect young people
Health minister Frank Vandenbroucke wants to ban all vape flavours in Belgium except tobacco, following new advice from the Superior Health Council. The goal is to stop vaping becoming a new route into nicotine addiction for young people.
Vandenbroucke says flavoured vapes are designed to attract children and hide the harm the products can cause. He points to the Netherlands, where only tobacco flavour has been allowed since January 2024. After nine months, nearly 30 per cent of users reported vaping less, and more than 20 per cent said they had quit without returning to cigarettes.
The Superior Health Council has updated its position. While it was once hesitant about a full ban, experts now agree that stronger limits are needed. Although some argue that a few flavours could help smokers quit, the Council says protecting young people must come first.
Recent surveys show that vaping among pupils has risen sharply, with almost a third having tried it and weekly use now four times higher than five years ago.
Illegal flavoured vapes still circulate in the Netherlands, and experts say strong enforcement of any ban will be essential. It is not yet clear when the ban could start. Vandenbroucke wants it in place as soon as possible.
Perstablo, representing press, tobacco and gaming retailers, slammed the minister’s plan as “an absurd measure with disastrous consequences” that could boost the illegal market. The group says it will explore all legal options to challenge the proposal, questioning both its validity and the decision-making process behind it.
Vandenbroucke’s measure follows earlier steps such as banning disposable vapes and restricting smoking in areas popular with young people.
© BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK
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