Spain fuming over smoking and vaping ban: Mallorca fears loss of tourism, calls for less restrictive controls
Spain's hospitality industry is protesting a new smoking ban, fearing negative impacts on tourism and business, while the CNMC suggests alternatives to a vaping ban.Summary
Spain is facing controversy over a new smoking law that includes a ban on smoking on terraces. The hospitality industry has strongly criticized the measure as “disproportionate,” warning it could harm tourism and damage Spain’s international image, potentially making it an outlier in Europe. Hostelería de España argues the ban will be ineffective, simply displacing smokers to less suitable locations and creating new problems. A report from the National Commission on Markets and Competition (CNMC) also suggests considering less restrictive alternatives to a complete ban on single-use electronic cigarettes, citing potential adjustment costs and the need to align with evolving European regulations. Public opinion, according to a survey by 40dB, leans towards information campaigns over outright bans, with a majority not viewing the terrace ban as a priority and fearing negative consequences for tourism and increased smoking in enclosed spaces. Hostelería de España is urging the government to reconsider the measure and engage in dialogue to find a solution that balances public health with economic concerns.
(Source：Majorca Daily Bulletin)
