Overview
- Retailers report brisk trade in what many expect to be the final legal sales period, with one Bunschoten seller estimating about 35% more volume than in previous years.
- The Veilige jaarwisseling initiative has passed both chambers but will take effect only after an enforcement plan and compensation scheme are in place, with the government targeting the next New Year.
- Erasmus MC surgeons say they have already treated more severe injuries than last year, including at least 14 children who lost fingers or a hand before Christmas.
- Doctors report the gravest cases are largely linked to illegal devices such as Cobra variants, which resulted in amputations in roughly 80% of incidents over recent years.
- Enthusiasts and shop owners argue a ban could fuel an unsafe black market, while some businesses intend to pivot to selling low-risk F1 items through supermarkets.