Overview
- Environment Minister Carsten Schneider voiced a clear preference for outlawing single-use e‑cigarettes, citing health concerns, environmental harm and fire risks at waste facilities.
- A ministry spokesperson confirmed that work on a ban has started, while noting the plans remain at an early stage and the lead between the Environment and Health ministries is not yet settled.
- In November the Bundestag asked the government to examine a prohibition and the Bundesrat backed the move, and Belgium, France and the United Kingdom have already enacted bans.
- From July 2026 retailers in Germany must take back e‑cigarettes at the point of sale, with no deposit scheme planned, a step environmental and municipal groups argue is inadequate.
- Industry groups warn a ban could fuel a thriving illegal market they estimate supplies up to half of disposable devices, as Germany’s e‑cigarette market totals about €2.4 billion with disposables near 10%.