These proposals are subject to a public consultation which was initiated last month in collaboration with the country’s 17 regions. The aim is of course gathering feedback on the proposals included in the anti-smoking plan. Meanwhile with regards to vaping, smoking cessation experts have long argued that setting bans on vaping products will be counterproductive to reducing smoking rates, given that many smokers use the products to quit or reduce harm.
On the other hand, Health Minister Monica Garcia emphasized the importance of discussing tobacco tax levels with the Finance Ministry in order to align with neighbouring countries. She addressed concerns about the economic impact of these measures.
While discussing a proposal to create outdoor smoke-free spaces, Garcia reassured that previous anti-smoking regulations did not significantly affect the hospitality sector. She expressed confidence that people would continue frequenting terraces, beaches, and universities despite smoke-free regulations.
Public consultation will precede any legislative action, ensuring input from various stakeholders. While all regions support the plan, differences in interpretation may arise, particularly regarding smoking on hospitality terraces. Madrid’s mayor criticized a potential terrace smoking ban, while a Mallorca restaurant owner expressed concerns about potential conflicts between customers and staff.
Harsh penalties for tourists in violation of regulations
In other news, last week Spain also announced it is moving towards an ‘outright ban’ and imposing heavier fines on tourists who flout regulations. The Ministry of Health is collaborating with local authorities to increase penalties for littering, particularly cigarette butt disposal.
While current regulations do not encompass a complete ban on smoking in outdoor areas like terraces, university campuses, or beaches, the approved plan lays the groundwork for potential future restrictions. Minister García emphasized the importance of creating more smoke-free spaces.
Over the past decade, Spain has witnessed notable shifts in smoking and vaping rates, reflecting evolving patterns of tobacco and nicotine product consumption. While smoking prevalence in Spain has traditionally been relatively high compared to some other European countries, recent years have seen a gradual decline in smoking rates. This decline can be attributed to various factors, including public health campaigns, smoking cessation programs, and increased awareness of the health risks associated with smoking.
The role of vaping in smoking cessation is ignored
However, a very likely factor contributing to this drop in smoking which local authorities seem to be ignoring, is the increase in vaping. This pattern is being observed globally. However, the rise in popularity of vapes among certain demographics, particularly among younger age groups, has led to new concerns regarding the potential health risks and addictiveness of vaping.
Overall, the landscape of nicotine consumption in Spain has undergone significant transformations over the past decade, with smoking rates declining and vaping rates experiencing fluctuations. Continued monitoring and research are necessary to understand the dynamics driving these trends and to inform evidence-based policies aimed at reducing tobacco-related harm in the country.
International Experts Call on Spain to Change its Tobacco Control Strategy
