Spain's Ministry of Health is advancing a sweeping new anti-tobacco law that will ban smoking and vaping in numerous outdoor public spaces. Health Minister Mónica García confirmed the reform will treat vapes, heated tobacco, and traditional cigarettes equally, prohibiting their use in areas like bar and restaurant terraces, work vehicles, university campuses, public pools, and party venues.
García stated there is "no such thing as healthy tobacco" and criticized the vape industry for "luring in new consumers" with flavors and marketing. The new law aims to close legal loopholes and protect the public from all forms of smoke and aerosol. The government is also planning stricter regulations on e-cigarette flavors, which it considers a "strategy to hook the young," and will introduce limits on the nicotine content in oral pouches.
Expected to enter public hearing in the coming weeks before proceeding to Congress, the legislation is part of Spain's goal to achieve a smoke-free generation by 2040. The message is clear: public puffing days are numbered.
