Starting January 1, 2025, new regulations will substantially impact the sale and advertising of tobacco and alcohol products in Brussels. Temporary sales outlets, such as festivals, will be prohibited from selling tobacco, while supermarkets over 400 square meters will face similar restrictions starting July 1, 2025. Additionally, tobacco products must be stored out of sight, and retailers are required to verify the age of customers appearing under 25. In a bid to curb alcohol advertising, the council of Advertising will ban promotions on platforms like TikTok and Snapchat, and restrict ads featuring celebrities. These measures aim to enhance public health and safety, with non-compliance possibly resulting in hefty fines for businesses.
New regulations on Tobacco and Alcohol Sales in Brussels: An Interview with Public Health Expert Dr. elise Martin
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Martin. Starting January 1, 2025, Brussels is set to implement sweeping new regulations on the sale and advertising of tobacco and alcohol products. Could you outline the key elements of these regulations?
Dr. Elise Martin: absolutely. The new regulations prohibit temporary sales outlets, like those at festivals, from selling tobacco products. Additionally, supermarkets larger than 400 square meters will face similar restrictions starting July 1, 2025. These changes aim to limit the availability of tobacco, ensuring it is indeed kept out of sight in retail spaces so that accessibility is reduced.
Time.news Editor: that’s significant! What about age verification measures?
Dr. Elise Martin: Yes, retailers will be required to verify the age of customers who appear to be under 25 years old. This is part of a broader effort to prevent underage smoking and to support healthier choices among young people.
Time.news Editor: What can you tell us about alcohol advertising under these new regulations?
Dr. Elise martin: The council of Advertising will ban promotions on social media platforms such as TikTok and Snapchat,which are popular among younger demographics. Additionally, celebrity endorsements in alcohol advertisements will be restricted. The goal here is to curb the influence that these platforms and figures can have on young people regarding alcohol consumption.
Time.news Editor: These regulations seem quite stringent.What are the implications for businesses in Brussels?
Dr.Elise Martin: Non-compliance with these regulations could led to significant fines for businesses, which means they will need to adapt quickly. As a notable example, retailers will need to implement effective age verification systems and possibly rethink thier display strategies to avoid penalties. It’s crucial that businesses stay informed and compliant to maintain their operations and avoid legal repercussions.
Time.news Editor: From a public health perspective, what benefits do you anticipate from these changes?
Dr. Elise Martin: The primary benefit is the enhancement of public health and safety. By limiting access to tobacco and alcohol, particularly for younger individuals, we aim to reduce the rates of smoking and alcohol-related harm. Public health campaigns have shown that reducing visibility and availability can have a real impact on consumption patterns, ultimately leading to long-term health benefits for the community.
Time.news Editor: are there any practical recommendations you could offer to businesses as they prepare for these changes?
Dr. Elise Martin: Certainly! First and foremost, businesses should get familiar with the new regulations and incorporate compliance into their operational procedures. Training staff on age verification processes is critical.Additionally, reevaluating marketing strategies to align with the new advertising restrictions will be essential. Engaging with local public health resources can also provide valuable guidance as they navigate these upcoming changes.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Martin, for sharing your insights on the new tobacco and alcohol regulations in Brussels. This details will be beneficial for both consumers and businesses as we move forward into 2025.
dr. Elise Martin: Thank you for having me. It’s an important conversation, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact these regulations will have on public health.