European e-cigarette regulation could reach another important milestone before the end of 2026. In the spring, the European Commission launched a public consultation on revising the rules governing tobacco products and related products, including vaping.
The consultation closed on August 14, 2026. The next challenge is now preparing the legislative proposal announced before the end of the year.
What is the TPD?
The Tobacco Products Directive, or directive on tobacco products, is a central part of the European framework applicable to tobacco and certain related products. It sets rules concerning manufacturing, presentation, placing on the market, and consumer information.
E-cigarettes are already covered by this framework. However, the market has changed significantly since the current legislation was introduced: the emergence of new devices, the development of nicotine salts, the growth of disposable or prefilled products, and the proliferation of nicotine-containing products without tobacco.
What happened in 2026?
On May 22, 2026, the European Commission launched a public consultation on revising the Tobacco Products Directive and the Tobacco Advertising Directive. Citizens, associations, professionals, and other stakeholders could contribute until August 14.
According to the Commission, the results of this consultation are intended to contribute to preparing a new legislative framework planned before the end of 2026.
What new rules have already been confirmed?
No definitive list of new bans applicable to vaping should be presented as settled at this stage. Consultation and assessment are precisely intended to determine which changes should be proposed.
Topics such as flavors, packaging, presentation, new nicotine products, and the protection of minors are part of the European public debate, but their presence in discussions does not mean that a specific ban has already been passed.
TPD and European tax: two different issues
It is easy to confuse the two reforms. The revision of the TPD primarily concerns the product framework. The revision of the Tobacco Taxation Directive concerns taxation and excise duties.
The latter is currently being negotiated by the Council. We explain the timeline in European tax on e-liquids: what is at stake on September 14, 2026.
Which products could be affected by changes to the framework?
The current market is very different from the one that existed when the previous generation of regulations was introduced. Refillable pods illustrate this development. VAPEVO offers, for example, the Vaporesso XROS Pro 2 Kit and Vaporesso XROS Series cartridges.
These products do not in any way prejudge the future European legislation. They simply demonstrate the technical diversity of the products that lawmakers must now take into account.
Why is this reform important for France?
A revised European directive could require Member States, including France, to adapt their national laws. Manufacturers, distributors, and consumers will therefore need to follow both the European legislation and its future transposition.
To better understand the difference between the main types of draw and equipment currently available, see our guide MTL, RDL, or DL: what is the difference and which draw should you choose?.
Upcoming dates to watch
- analysis of contributions to the consultation that closed on August 14, 2026;
- presentation of the revision proposal announced before the end of 2026;
- debate between European institutions;
- possible adoption followed by transposition in the Member States.
FAQ
Does the TPD already ban vape flavors in Europe?
As of today, there is no new general European ban on flavors resulting from the future revision. However, some countries may have different national rules.
Will the new TPD enter into force at the end of 2026?
The Commission has announced a proposal before the end of 2026. A proposal is not the same as entry into force: the European legislative process will continue afterward.
Is the tax reform the same thing as the TPD?
No. The product framework and the tax framework are two separate texts and two separate procedures.
Main source
Vaping is not risk-free and is intended for adults. VAPEVO will monitor the publication of the European proposal in order to update this article.
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