The Bulgarian Parliament has taken a decisive step toward eliminating the domestic vape market, voting unanimously at first reading to completely ban the supply, sale, distribution, and advertising of all electronic cigarettes. This sweeping legislative push targets both disposable and reusable devices, representing one of the strictest anti-vaping stances in Europe.
The bill, which amends the Act on Tobacco and Related Products, was introduced by Kostadin Angelov, Chairperson of the Committee on Health. It applies to all vaping products, including those that do not contain nicotine. Angelov argued that marketing claims of “reduced harm” or the “absence of harmful substances” are misleading, encouraging prolonged and excessive use that ultimately threatens public health.
In tandem with the vape ban, lawmakers approved major revisions to the Child Protection Act. These changes establish a strict prohibition on the supply, use, and sale of all nicotine-containing products to children. The restriction covers modern smokeless alternatives such as:
- Nicotine pouches and snus
- Nicotine lozenges and gums
- Energy drinks
In a separate but related move, Parliament voted 200-0 to authorize immediate measures against the sale and advertising of products containing narcotic substances, precursors, or chemical analogues. This initiative tasks competent authorities with drafting robust legislative changes to ensure effective market control and prevent illicit drug-laced products from circulating.
While the bill must still pass a second reading to become law, the unanimous support from MPs across the political spectrum signals a powerful mandate to eradicate youth vaping and tighten controls on alternative nicotine products nationwide.
