Spain has been taking steps to regulate vaping products since the implementation of the Royal Decree 579/2017, which translated the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) into Spanish regulations. However, the Spanish government is now considering further restrictions on the sale and distribution of e-cigarettes, citing concerns about their “harmful short-term effects” and the accessibility of nicotine-based devices to minors online. Led by Carolina Darias, the Ministry of Health aims to reformulate local anti-smoking legislation to include e-cigarettes and has proposed a general e-liquid tax to be in line with WHO and EU TPD standards, which could significantly impact the local vape industry.
Ministry of Health’s Concerns about E-cigarette Sales
The Spanish Ministry of Health is alarmed by the increasing sale and distribution of e-cigarettes, particularly through online channels. According to Carolina Darias, the Ministry of Health is worried about the insufficient and ineffective methods to prevent minors from accessing nicotine-based devices online. In light of this concern, the ministry is considering banning online sales of vaping products and limiting their sales to specialized tobacco shops. The aim is to regulate the accessibility of e-cigarettes to minors and tighten the control over their distribution in the country.
Proposed General E-liquid Tax
In addition to the Ministry of Health’s efforts, the Ministry of Finance in Spain has also been actively involved in the regulation of tobacco products, including e-cigarettes. The National Committee for the Prevention of Smoking (Comité Nacional para la Prevención del Tabaquismo or CNPT), an umbrella organization, has prepared a report for the Ministry of Health proposing a general e-liquid tax based on the volume of e-liquid and nicotine content.
The CNPT’s proposal suggests a general e-liquid tax at the EU average rate of €0.15 per ml, with an additional element for nicotine content at €0.006 per mg. The group estimates that with an average tax rate of 35.6%, the Spanish government could collect €35 million in revenue annually from this tax. According to a CNPT spokesperson, this proposal is seen as a viable option for the Spanish economy, as it would generate economic returns while promoting a reduction in the consumption of e-cigarettes.
Impact on the Vape Industry
If the proposed e-liquid tax is implemented, it could have a significant impact on the local vape industry in Spain. The CNPT’s proposal, which is currently being discussed internally between the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Finance, aims to align with WHO and EU TPD standards. However, it could potentially result in increased costs for e-liquid manufacturers and distributors, which could be passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices. This could affect the affordability and accessibility of e-cigarettes for consumers, potentially leading to a decline in their consumption.
The tax could also impact the competitiveness of the local vape industry in Spain. With higher taxes, local e-liquid manufacturers and distributors may face challenges in competing with products from other countries with lower taxes. This could potentially result in a decline in the demand for locally produced e-liquids, which could have implications for local businesses and employment in the industry.
FAQ
Are e-cigarettes regulated in Spain?
Yes, e-cigarettes are regulated in Spain through the Royal Decree 579/2017, which translates the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) into Spanish regulations.What is the Ministry of Health’s concern about e-cigarette sales?
The Ministry of Health in Spain is concerned about the accessibility of nicotine-based devices to minors online and the insufficient methods to prevent their access. They are considering banning online sales of vaping products and limiting sales to specialized tobacco shops.
