Germany’s vaping crackdown targets 13 flavor additives by 2026

The German government is preparing to ban 13 flavor and cooling additives in e-cigarettes. The move, led by Food and Agriculture Minister Alois Rainer, aims to protect young people from vaping. Critics argue the restrictions will hurt legal sellers more than the black market.

The proposed legislation, called the TabakNikiV-ÄndV, focuses on substances like WS-23 and menthol derivatives. These additives are widely used in e-cigarettes to create cooling or minty effects. The ban is scheduled for adoption in early 2026 and will take effect by mid-2026.

Rainer’s ministry, the BMEL, believes the measure will reduce youth vaping by making flavoured e-cigarettes less appealing. The government has specifically highlighted menthol-based products as a key target. However, industry representatives warn that illegal sellers, not licensed shops, will likely fill the gap left by the ban. The tobacco sector claims the policy will push consumers toward unregulated alternatives. They argue that black-market products, which already bypass existing rules, will become even more widespread.

The new rules will prohibit 13 additives once approved in 2026. Authorities expect the ban to curb underage vaping by removing popular flavors. The long-term impact on legal retailers and illicit sales remains uncertain.