The Netherlands is set to raise the smoking and vaping age to 21 as part of a major crackdown on nicotine addiction.
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The Dutch government is planning to shake things up when it comes to smoking and vaping.
A new proposal from the Ministry of Health aims to raise the legal age for buying cigarettes and vapes from 18 to 21. But that’s not all—fines for selling vapes illegally are set to increase significantly, and the government is cracking down on online sales and marketing tricks that make vaping more appealing to young people.
Why the Netherlands is cracking down on vaping and smoking
It’s no secret that vaping has exploded in popularity among teenagers. In 2023, nearly a quarter of young people aged 12 to 16 had already tried vaping, according to health institute RIVM. That’s a big red flag for public health experts, who warn that nicotine is one of the most addictive substances out there—only heroin and crack rank higher.
Even though flavoured e-cigarettes were banned last year, they’re still widely available, especially online. The Dutch government is now stepping up enforcement, with higher fines for illegal vape sales and stricter controls on how and where vapes can be sold. Shops will no longer be able to sell fancy vape accessories like flavoured tips, and all e-cigarettes will soon come in plain packaging, much like traditional cigarettes.
The Netherlands’ plan for a smoke-free future by 2040
State Secretary Vincent Karremans says these new rules are part of a much bigger plan to make the Netherlands smoke-free by 2040. The government is also investing €3 million in an awareness campaign aimed at educating parents and young people about the dangers of vaping. And they’re serious about enforcement—expect more crackdowns on retailers who break the rules.
Health experts are backing the move, citing worrying statistics. The Dutch Society of Pediatrics (NVK) reported that in 2024 alone, at least 14 children were hospitalised due to vaping-related lung issues like collapsed lungs and pulmonary haemorrhages. The concern is clear: vaping might be marketed as a ‘safer’ alternative to smoking, but it’s highly addictive, and many teens who start vaping end up smoking traditional cigarettes too.
What’s next for vaping laws in the Netherlands?
The proposal is now up for debate in Parliament, where lawmakers will consider public and industry feedback before making a final decision. The government is also looking at the idea of forcing tobacco companies to pay a levy to fund health campaigns and prevention programmes.
With 70% of young vapers also smoking traditional cigarettes, the Dutch government is determined to cut off nicotine addiction at its source. Whether these new rules will be enough remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Netherlands is taking a tough stance on vaping, and big changes are coming.
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