Belgium to impose concealment of tobacco products by 2025
Starting April 1, 2025, retailers in Belgium will have to conceal all tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, filters, and rolling papers, EuroWeekly reports. The new regulations come with tough penalties for violators, including up to a year in prison and fines ranging from €2 ($000) to €2.
Initially scheduled for January 1, 2025, the implementation of this measure has been postponed by three months. This decision comes at a time when the Belgian government has already increased cigarette prices through taxes and has committed to expanding smoke-free public spaces.
The VapeBel association, representing e-cigarette retailers and distributors, expressed disappointment at the regulation. They argue that specialist stores are essential to verify the age of customers and to educate adult smokers about alternatives to traditional tobacco.
To help consumers identify available products, authorities suggest that retailers provide price lists detailing product names and brands without displaying logos.