By Molly Grace
Copyright euroweeklynews
The Spanish Government has approved a draft anti-tobacco law that introduces some of the toughest measures in Europe, with new restrictions on smoking and vaping aimed at protecting young people and reshaping public health policy.
The bill goes further than previous legislation by banning not only smoking indoors but also in a wide range of outdoor public spaces. If passed, smoking and vaping will be prohibited on bar and restaurant terraces, at outdoor concerts, in stadiums, at bus stops, and within set distances of schools, playgrounds, hospitals, and other public buildings. The restrictions also cover electronic cigarettes, shisha, and nicotine pouches, placing them under the same framework as traditional tobacco products.
The law seeks to curb the growing popularity of flavoured disposable vapes, which health officials say are particularly attractive to teenagers. Under the draft, these single-use devices will be banned altogether, and the sale of tobacco and vaping products will be restricted to licensed tobacconists and regulated vending machines. Smoking clubs, which have been tolerated in some parts of Spain, would also be banned. Enforcement measures are strict, with fines of up to €600,000 for the most serious infractions, such as breaches of advertising restrictions. Smaller violations, such as smoking in prohibited spaces, would also carry penalties. The Ministry of Health has justified these rules by highlighting Spain’s high smoking-related mortality rate of around 50,000 deaths annually and stressing the importance of prevention among younger generations.
Public reaction has been mixed. Many welcome the changes as overdue, while others question the feasibility of enforcing bans in crowded terraces or open-air venues. For some, the focus on vaping is particularly significant. Speaking to Euro Weekly News, África, a Spanish resident, said: “I don’t think youths that vape realise just how dangerous it is. All the different flavours would make you believe that it’s the same as eating sweets. I think it’s a good thing that the government is taking a serious step towards this, I just hope they also include the beach, because the cigarette butts are horrible to keep coming across when you’re trying to relax and enjoy your time.”
Conversely, Rocío expressed concern over the impact on public freedoms, commenting: “I think it’s wrong that they are trying to ban smoking in public spaces. The public street is for everyone to use. If they are going to do that, they might as well ban tobacco altogeth, I’m not at all happy about this new ban.”
Health Minister Mónica García has defended the draft law as a necessary public health intervention, stressing that reducing exposure and visibility of smoking is key to breaking the cycle of tobacco use across generations. Campaigners note that Spain was once considered a pioneer in tobacco regulation but has since fallen behind other European countries. With this reform, the government hopes to regain leadership in tobacco control. The draft legislation will now move to parliamentary debate, where it could be amended before becoming law. If adopted, it would represent a landmark shift in Spain’s tobacco control strategy, significantly expanding smoke-free spaces, tackling new nicotine products, and reinforcing the government’s commitment to protecting public health, however, that the restrictions may also affect Spain’s economy and social life, with potential reductions in customers frequenting bars, restaurants, and outdoor venues where smoking has been commonplace, at least until new social habits take hold.
For now, the question is: should Spain reinforce its smoking laws to protect public health, or should the current regulations remain in place? Share your opinion and join the debate.
