The Canary Islands Government will uphold and increase the fiscal levy on electronic cigarettes and vaping products in the 2025 budget. This announcement was made by the region’s Finance Minister, Matilde Asián, during a parliamentary committee session.
This decision follows the pioneering 2024 budget, where the Canary Islands became the first region in Spain to impose a tax of €0.10 per milliliter on e-liquids, regardless of nicotine content. Asián emphasized the government’s commitment to public health and expressed hope for a Europe-wide mandate for such taxation.
Health Concerns and Regulatory Measures
Melodie Mendoza of the ASG (Gomera Socialist Party) raised concerns about e-cigarettes and vaping devices, describing them as “deceptive gateways to tobacco use among adolescents.” She highlighted that these products are often designed to resemble toys with sweet flavors, increasing their appeal to young people. Mendoza supported the Ministry of Health’s recent moves to equate the regulation of e-cigarettes with that of traditional tobacco products.
Mendoza noted that while some vape products are nicotine-free, they still pose health risks, particularly lung-related issues. She stressed that the use of these products could lead to habitual use, especially among children. Mendoza also pointed out the lack of solid evidence supporting e-cigarettes as effective tools for quitting smoking. Studies indicate that children who use e-cigarettes are up to three times more likely to start smoking traditional tobacco.
Dual Benefits of Increased Taxation
Mendoza argued for the potential benefits of increasing the tax on e-cigarettes, which include both a deterrent effect and additional revenue for healthcare services. She advocated for higher taxes as a means to reduce usage and fund health initiatives.
This move aligns with the Canary Islands’ broader public health strategy, aiming to reduce tobacco-related harm and prevent smoking among young people. The government’s fiscal policy underscores its commitment to mitigating health risks associated with vaping and tobacco use. There is hope that this initiative sets a precedent for other regions of Spain to follow.
