Cigar shops have one year to adapt. Afterward, they risk fines and up to a year in prison.

Belgian anti-smoking regulations are evolving. As of April 1, 2025, it will be prohibited to display all tobacco products, whether in shop windows or inside.

The measure does not include any exceptions for handmade cigars. However, it gives retailers one year to adapt before the planned penalties (up to one year in prison and a fine of €800,000) come into effect.

The official objective is to reduce the visibility of tobacco products to make them less attractive. Such a measure is already in effect in the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, for example.

Furthermore, as of the same date of April 1, 2025, tobacco products will no longer be allowed to be sold in food stores larger than 400 square meters (big supermarkets).

Belgium has launched a “tobacco-free generation” plan, which includes a whole series of measures spread over time and makes no distinction between different tobacco products.

The current ruling right- and center-right coalition is considering banning smoking rooms and prohibiting smoking on café and restaurant terraces.

The issue of plain packaging for handmade cigars, also included in the anti-smoking plan, is currently being debated before the Belgian courts.