Lorraine Williamson
Spain is preparing new legislation to tighten smoking restrictions in public and shared spaces. The move forms part of a broader national health strategy and aims to discourage smoking, particularly among young people.
The proposed measures will prohibit smoking in a wider range of outdoor and semi-public locations. These include work vehicles, bus shelters, terraces, educational institutions (both indoor and outdoor), sports facilities, public swimming pools, and open-air entertainment venues.
In addition, tobacco companies will be required to use plain packaging, eliminating logos and brand colours from cigarette packs.
Draft bill under review
The draft text of the law is still under review and consultation. It is currently being discussed with various Spanish ministries, regional governments, and health organisations. Scientific bodies will also be invited to contribute feedback before the proposal is finalised.
Although still in draft stage, key elements have already been outlined, and support is growing across government departments.
Health Ministry: Fast-tracking tobacco control
Health Minister Mónica García has expressed the government’s determination to act swiftly. “We hope this bill soon becomes a reality,” she said in a recent press release. “Every smoke-free space is a gain for public health.”
García emphasised the impact of smoking, which accounts for 30% of cancer cases in Spain. She called for a strong and united approach, describing smoking as “one of the greatest threats to public health”.
Plain packaging to be introduced
The reform will also implement standardised cigarette packaging, a measure supported by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Similar policies have already been adopted in the UK, France, Australia, and New Zealand.
Plain packaging aims to reduce the appeal of smoking and increase the number of quit attempts. Studies show it is especially effective in reducing smoking rates among younger people.
Part of a broader national strategy
This legislation is a central component of Spain’s updated anti-smoking strategy. Other planned reforms include increased taxes on tobacco products and funding for smoking cessation treatments through the public health system.
SEPAR, the Spanish Society of Pneumonology and Thoracic Surgery, has pushed for the urgent adoption of these measures, warning that delays risk continued harm to public health.
As the government accelerates efforts, the new law could mark a turning point in Spain’s battle against tobacco use.
Sources: Infosalus, elEconomista