Belgium ban of disposable e-cigarettes from 2025
Starting January 1, 2025, Belgium will ban the sale of disposable e-cigarettes, becoming the first EU country to take such a step. This decision, approved by the European Commission, was announced by Belgian Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke, who argues that this move is essential in the fight against tobacco and in protecting both society and the environment, particularly when it comes to younger users.
This ban on disposable e-cigarettes is part of a broader policy aimed at reducing smoking rates and promoting the responsible use of vape products. The objective is to ensure that alternatives like e-cigarettes are primarily used for smoking cessation rather than becoming an entry point for new users.
Belgium, with approximately 25% of its adult population currently smoking, faces a significant public health challenge, with about 2.4 million smokers in the country. The ban on disposable e-cigarettes aims to address these health concerns by limiting access to products that are frequently marketed to younger demographics.
Learn more about worldwide vaping regulations here
Changes in e-cigarette regulations in Belgium
The ban on disposable electronic cigarettes is just one of several regulatory changes under Belgian law concerning vape products and other tobacco alternatives.
New e-liquid taxation rules in Belgium include:
- Excise taxes: From January 1, 2024, new excise taxes have been imposed on both nicotine and non-nicotine e-liquids at a rate of €0.15 per milliliter.
- Tax mark requirement: All e-liquids must bear a “tax mark” to indicate that the excise tax has been paid. This ensures proper taxation and compliance for vape products in Belgium.
- Compliance deadlines: Existing e-liquids must comply with the new tax mark requirements by March 31, 2024. From April 1, 2024, all vape products sold in Belgium must bear this mark.
Notification and modification fees of e-liquids in Belgium:
- Notification fee: €200 per product.
- Modification fee: €100 per product.
- Annual Report fee: €50 per product.
Other regulatory changes for e-liquid products in Belgium:
- Prohibition of nicotine and CBD pouches: The sale of nicotine and CBD pouches has been prohibited since July 2023.
- Restrictions on vaping devices: Vaping devices are now prohibited from featuring additional functions like LED lights, a step aimed at reducing their attractiveness to younger users. This aligns with the overall Belgian law to limit the appeal of vape products.
- Labeling requirements: Since July 2023, vaping devices must not contain added features and must comply with new labeling requirements, including a single-word description for flavors.
Chemnovatic specializes in delivering comprehensive regulatory advisory services customized for the e-liquid industry. With a skilled and experienced team, we possess the expertise to offer guidance and assistance across a wide range of regulations specific to e-liquids. This includes regulations such as TPD, UFI, CLP, REACH, and more.
At Chemnovatic, we diligently monitor all legislative changes in the e-cigarette industry worldwide. Feel free to reach out to us for consultations or advice.
TPD Compliance and Labeling Requirements in Belgium
Belgium’s new regulations are closely aligned with the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD). This means that e-liquids and vape products must comply with specific labeling standards, including the listing of ingredients, health warnings, and proper notifications under the TPD. Flavors must also be described with a single word, in accordance with the latest rules.
Learn more:
- Regulations In The Vape Industry
- E-Liquid Regulations: Current And Future Laws & Bans In The World
- Understanding the Disposable Vape Ban in the UK
- Vaping in Finland: Culture, Market & Regulations
- Vaping in Estonia – trends, regulations, and opportunities
- Vaping in Sweden: Is It Only Just Snus Culture?
- Vaping Regulations In Australia: what do they mean for e-liquid industry?
- TPD compliant e-liquid packaging: Part 1
- TPD Compliant E-Liquid Packaging: Part 2
- Regulations for vape products in the UAE: fees, taxes, and rules
Environmental impact of single-use vapes
One of the leading arguments for banning disposable e-cigarettes is their negative environmental impact. These devices, made from plastics and containing electronic components, are difficult to recycle and often end up in general waste, putting additional strain on waste management systems. European waste management associations have repeatedly called for a ban across the EU due to these environmental concerns.
Belgian anti-tobacco policy and Smoke-Free Generation
Belgium’s ban on disposable e-cigarettes is part of a broader anti-tobacco policy by the government. This strategy includes stricter rules for the sale of disposable electronic cigarettes, restrictions on advertising, and the expansion of smoke-free zones in public spaces. The restrictions on smoking and vaping in public areas and on public transport are key measures designed to limit the presence of nicotine products in shared spaces and encourage responsible use among adults.
Summary
The ban on disposable vapes in Belgium marks a major change for the vaping industry, highlighting the need to adapt to stricter regulations. For businesses, this means adjusting to a market where vape products must focus on sustainability and following the rules.
Although the regular e-cigarettes will still be allowed, they will face more oversight under the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) and tougher excise tax requirements. Companies will need to innovate by creating more eco-friendly products while ensuring they meet laws on labeling, taxes, and product design.
Businesses that can quickly adapt to these new standards—focusing on compliance, innovation, and sustainability—will be better positioned to thrive in this evolving landscape. Ultimately, the future of the industry will depend on its ability to balance product innovation with meeting stricter legal and environmental requirements across Europe.
At Chemnovatic,, we handle all the excise tax related needs, providing a complete solution for our clients. E-liquid manufacturing, tax stamp labeling, consultations – we’ve got you covered. Let us be your trusted partner in navigating excise duties and regulatory compliance, ensuring a seamless experience for your business. Contact us at sales@chemnovatic.com or visit ExTRA – Excise Tax Ready Solutions – Services to learn more.
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