Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002133/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Liesbet Sommen (PPE)
There has been a worrying increase in the number of illegal e-cigarettes (vapes) on the European single market, including products that do not comply with EU standards. Some contain more nicotine than declared, or are sold as being nicotine-free when they do in fact contain nicotine. In addition, inferior combustion mechanisms in certain appliances lead to elevated concentrations of heavy metals such as copper, mercury, cadmium, zinc and lead – which pose serious health risks, especially for young people.
Two new trends are also worthy of note: Smart vapes, which are linked to gaming devices that reinforce addictive behaviour (a combination of gaming and nicotine addiction), and THC vapes, which allow the psychoactive compound THC from cannabis to be consumed in a cheap, discreet and odourless way. Despite bans in many Member States, these products are widely available.
- 1.The current regulatory framework is clearly inadequate. What is the European Commission doing to address the growing availability of illegal and harmful vapes among teenagers in the internal market?
- 2.Is the Commission considering funding research into the health impact of vape products through Horizon Europe?
- 3.Why has no revision of Directive 2014/40/EU on tobacco products been proposed yet? When will the Commission take action to address these worrying developments?
Submitted: 28.5.2025