The National Council recently voted on a bill to ban the sale and consumption of disposable electronic cigarettes in certain places in the Principality. Elected officials overwhelmingly supported the bill during a public legislative session on 17 October 2024. This is Monaco’s first law specifically concerning the use of nicotine vaping devices.
Following an idea expressed by young Monegasques who participated in the Think Tank 2024, led by Mathilde Le Clerc, elected members of the National Council have taken action. The new bill states that the use of single use e-cigarettes presents health risks and constitutes a source of pollution for the environment.
“We can stop our youth from falling into the trap of nicotine addiction. All while reducing the environmental impact of these disposable products,” said Roland Mouflard, National Council member.
“Single-use electronic cigarettes, commonly known (in Monaco) as ‘puffs’ are a danger that concern the public health, the protection of the younger generation and the environment…(This bill is) necessary and urgent for our youth,” said Roland Mouflard, who is the Rapporteur for the new bill.
Single use electronic cigarettes contain nicotine, a toxic and addictive substance, mixed with flavours, which make them palatable and tempting for young people.
For many years, the Principality has fought against single-use plastic waste in order to preserve the environment.
Monaco’s smoking laws…
In 2021, the Prince’s Government made the decision to make beaches in the Principality non-smoking during the summer season. Tobacco and electronic cigarettes are prohibited on the Larvotto beach, the “plage des pêcheurs” and the beach on the Quai Casiraghi during the summer.
The Monegasque government is also contemplating raising the minimum age for cigarette purchases from 16 to 18. There are no laws against tobacco advertising and sponsorship, cigarette advertisements are permitted in Monaco.
