Belgium to ban display of tobacco products
From 1 April 2025, cigarettes, vapes and other smoking products will no longer be allowed to be visibly displayed in shops. Shopkeepers who fail to comply with the ban risk imprisonment of up to one year and a fine of between 2,000 and 800,000 euros.
Belgium's Federal Public Service (FPS) Health has announced it will ban the display of smoking products in shops. The ruling applies to cigarettes, cigars, electronic cigarettes, filters and cigarette papers. The government's intention is to make smoking less attractive, especially among young people.
The new measure had been due to take effect in January and is part of the government's drive to eliminate smoking. Earlier this year, the price of cigarettes was increased, and from 2025, smoking will be banned in more places.
VapeBel, the federation of vape retailers and distributors in Belgium, says it is disappointed. It says that specialist stores play an role in effective age verification and in informing adult smokers about vape products as smoking cessation aids. VapeBel is calling for an exception for specialist stores, something that is also recommended by Belgium’s Superior Health Council.
© PHOTO JONAS HAMERS IMAGEGLOBE
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