Belgium's Federal Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke is pushing for a comprehensive ban on all e-cigarette flavors except tobacco, aiming to present the proposal to the government swiftly. "We must protect our children and prevent a new generation from becoming addicted to smoking," Vandenbroucke declared, criticizing the industry for using attractive flavors like bubble gum and popcorn to entice youth.
The minister's stance is supported by a recent Superior Health Council report and aligns with long-standing legislative efforts by MP Els Van Hoof. Recent data from Sciensano reveals a alarming trend: daily e-cigarette use among 15-24 year-olds has increased tenfold from 0.6% in 2018 to 6.3% in 2023-2024. Vandenbroucke points to the Netherlands, where a similar tobacco-flavor-only rule implemented in January 2024 reportedly led to reduced vaping among nearly 30% of users.
However, the proposal faces fierce opposition from the vaping industry. VapeBel, representing retailers and distributors, warns that "hundreds of shops" could close, threatening over 700 jobs and €80 million in annual tax revenue. Critics, including Prodipresse and Perstablo, argue that drastically reducing product range will drive consumers to the black market and illegal online sales. Despite this, Vandenbroucke remains firm, viewing the ban as essential to break the tobacco lobby's power and protect public health.
- News source: Health minister eyes ban on flavoured e-cigarettes
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