EU countries have endorsed stricter anti-smoking recommendations, aiming to reduce exposure to second-hand smoke and vapour in public spaces such as playgrounds, cafe patios, and other outdoor areas.

Approved by health ministers from the bloc’s 27 member states in Brussels, the proposal also targets heated tobacco products and electronic cigarettes, reflecting concerns over their rising popularity, particularly among young people.

Although the recommendations are non-binding, they indicate potential future policy directions under the EU’s “Beating Cancer Plan,” which aims to reduce smoking rates to under 5% by 2040.

Malta expressed strong support, noting that several suggested measures are already incorporated in its laws. The government also stated that any additional actions would involve public consultation.

The proposal calls for extending smoking bans to areas such as beaches, swimming pools, zoos, and restaurant terraces.

While most countries voted in favour, Germany and Greece abstained, citing regional authority and concerns over the lack of scientific evidence on the impact of e-cigarettes. Italy and Romania were also sceptical about banning outdoor vaping but supported the broader recommendations.

Malta has long been a strong advocate for public health, with 73% of its population supporting smoking bans in outdoor spaces, far higher than the EU average of 56%.

The European Parliament recently rejected a similar resolution, highlighting divisions on whether traditional tobacco products and e-cigarettes should be treated the same. Tobacco use, responsible for over 8 million deaths annually, remains a critical public health issue.

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