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THE SPANISH GOVERNMENT HAS ANNOUNCED A SERIES OF CHANGES KATE LALLY 13:52, 30 May 2025 Anyone planning a trip to Spain should be aware of proposed new rules they may soon need to follow, or
risk being hit with hefty fines. The Spanish authorities confirmed planned updates to the Anti-Tobacco Law on Thursday, May 29, which if approved will lead to more no-smoking or vaping zones
across the country. Spanish Health Minister Mónica García has announced the completion of a draft anti-smoking bill that aims to protect public well-being, focusing on groups at risk like
children and pregnant women. García said in a statement: "We have always said it. It is time to be ambitious in the fight against smoking, one of the main threats to public health
causing 30 percent of cancers." She added that smoke-free areas "are backed by scientific evidence, international experience" along with EU guidelines, and "supported by
a majority of citizens, including smokers, who are asking us to take a firm stance against the scourge of tobacco." If approved, the new rules will see smoking - and vaping - banned in
public spaces such as around swimming pools and sports amenities, bar and restaurant terraces, work vehicles, bus stops, outdoor spaces linked to nightclubs, and educational facilities such
as university grounds and play areas. Article continues below The ministry has yet to confirm the precise date these changes will come into force, but the legal process is already in motion.
In many parts of Spain, smoking on beaches is already banned, with penalties reaching up to 2,000 euros for those found breaking the rules - and this also applies to vaping.