The federal government has reached an agreement on a ban on flavours in vapes. From 1 September 2028, only unflavoured and tobacco-flavoured vapes may be sold. Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke (Flemish socialist Vooruit) says the measure primarily aims to protect young people.
“With their appealing flavours, vapes are deliberately designed to tempt young people into smoking. That is unacceptable and must stop,” says Vandenbroucke. “It is our duty to protect people’s health, and certainly that of young people.”
The use of vapes has risen sharply in recent years, particularly among young people. “Flavours play a major role in this: they make vapes more appealing and mask their harmful nature.”
Tests have also shown that some vapes contain harmful substances such as pesticides or lead.
The measure follows the advice of the High Council for Health. Last November it called for a significant reduction in the number of permitted flavours.
Belgium is following in the footsteps of the Netherlands, where a similar ban is already in force. An evaluation there shows that vape use has fallen: two in five users vape less, and 22 per cent have stopped completely.
The Belgian ban could facilitate a flavour-ban across the EU soon.