Spain’s government approves a draft law banning smoking and vaping in terraces, beaches and parks to protect public health.
MADRID: Spain’s minority left-wing government approved on Tuesday a draft law that would ban smoking and vaping in outdoor spaces including bar terraces, parks and beaches.
The draft law would also ban minors from consuming tobacco and prevent the advertising, promotion or sponsoring of tobacco products, which pose severe health risks including cancer.
Health Minister Monica Garcia said the aim was to expand restrictions beyond an indoor smoking ban introduced in 2010 “to better protect public health and move towards a tobacco-free generation”.
“The aim is simple: to make clean air the norm in shared spaces,” she told a news conference after the draft law was approved by the cabinet. She said pregnant women and people with asthma should be able to enjoy restaurant terraces without being exposed to smoke from nearby tables.
The draft law still must be approved by parliament where the government lacks a majority.
It is likely to spark a fierce backlash from the key hospitality sector in a country where outdoor dining is popular during searing summer heat.
Around 26% of Spain’s adult population smokes daily, according to 2024 data from the health authorities.
Smoking causes around 50,000 deaths a year in Spain and is a risk factor in around 30% of cancers, Garcia said.