The Spanish government is moving forward with a new anti-tobacco reform that will significantly expand its list of smoke-free public places, with the new rules applying equally to both traditional cigarettes and vapes. Health Minister Mónica García confirmed that the ban will extend to numerous outdoor areas to protect public health.
The expanded list of prohibited locations will include bar and restaurant terraces, university campuses, school courtyards, public swimming pools, sports facilities, bus stops, outdoor parties, and company cars. García stated that by equating e-cigarettes with regular cigarettes, authorities are closing a legal loophole that tobacco companies have used to attract young people. "There is no such thing as healthy tobacco. Vapes are harmful, despite the industry’s attempts to whitewash them," she said.
In addition to the expanded public use ban, the government will introduce new regulations on vape flavors and limit the nicotine content in chewing pouches, which are currently much stronger than their medical counterparts.
