The Dutch government plans to significantly increase penalties for businesses that illegally sell vapes and cigarettes. Under the proposed measures, fines will be set at €2,040 for a first offence, €3,060 for a second violation, and €4,040 if the seller is a company with more than 50 employees. The new fine structure is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2026, pending approval from both houses of parliament.
Why the Government Is Taking Action
Authorities say illegal sales remain widespread despite increasingly strict regulations on vape products. The Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) has been seizing large quantities of prohibited vapes throughout 2025: tens of thousands of devices so far this year, including a single confiscation of approximately 80,000 units near Schiphol Airport.
What's Already Banned
The Netherlands has already implemented extensive restrictions on vape sales:
Flavoured vapes (anything other than tobacco flavour) are completely banned
Online sales of all vape products are prohibited
Starting in 2025, vapes may only be sold in specialised tobacco shops; supermarkets and hospitality venues like bars and restaurants can no longer carry them
Nicotine pouches are also banned
The NVWA enforces these rules and has the authority to seize illegal stock and fine repeat offenders.
Photo Credits: Elsa Olofsson/Unsplash
Impact on Retailers
For retailers, the proposed fine increases mean that continuing to sell flavored or otherwise prohibited vapes (or selling any tobacco or vape products to people under 18) carries substantially higher financial risks. Shops can also expect more frequent inspections. Larger retail chains face exposure to the €4,040 penalty tier for violations. The government's stated goal is to make non-compliance more expensive than following the rules, creating a strong economic incentive for legal sales practices.
Health Concerns Driving Policy
The stricter penalties come amid growing concern from doctors and public health organizations about rising youth vaping rates and associated health risks. The government's comprehensive anti-vaping strategy combines tougher enforcement, higher fines, and public awareness campaigns designed to reduce the availability of vapes and discourage use among minors.
Timeline
If parliament approves the proposal as expected, the new fine levels will go into effect on July 1, 2026. Until then, current rules and existing penalty amounts remain in place, while enforcement actions including product seizures and retail inspections continue under the NVWA's oversight.
