Malta with its rich history, which is unbelievable for such a small island, has quickly become popular with tourists and today is one of the most sought islands in the Mediterranean Sea.
Although still adorned with the knights’ fortifications, the Maltese islands have progressed and adapted to modern times, also in line with the smokers realm.
If you are lucky enough to live or visit Malta, and also vape, make sure to attain all the knowledge about local legal rules surrounding e-cigarettes to enjoy the experience safely and with peace of mind. This article tackles just that, so read on to attain the level of a Maltese vaping connoisseur.
Vaping Use & Age Restrictions
So, are there any age restrictions for Malta to buy and use vapes? The simple answer is yes, and it stands at 18 years, which is the legal age that permits an individual to buy and consume e-cigarettes in Malta. This falls within the normality of most European countries. Moreover, this way the authorities are making sure that only adult purchasers are consuming vaping, in line with the country`s adherence to thwart underage vaping.
Finally, even retailers need to verify that they are selling vapes to adult clients, thus making sure that they too are complying with Malta`s legal standards. This can be easily covered by requesting for an identification card, especially if interested purchasers seem young.
Can Tourists Bring Vapes to Malta?
As aforementioned, the simple straight answer is yes for both vapes and e-liquids, however stringent regulations exist for travel and usage. For the safety of travellers and to prevent fire hazards from lithium batteries, vapes need to be stowed away in hand luggage and not in the checked travel bags. However, the fact that vapes remain close by should not be tempting to reach out for a quick puff. Kindly exercise caution and abide by the rules.
It stands to reason that the liquid rules for hand luggage applies also for e-liquids, thus follow the usual guidelines which state that any liquid volume up to 100ml per container must be in clear resealable bags. Okay now we have already uncovered some rules which will also be touched in the below aeroplane section, so let us move on.
Boundaries Around Vaping in Public
Similar to traditional cigarettes, cigars, or even pipes, Maltese rules surrounding smoking in public apply also to vaping, and they impose certain type of restrictions on where one can make use of e-cigarettes.
It stands to reason that one can`t smoke in smoke-free zones, that is quite straight forward. It is good to know though that these include healthcare and educational premises, even public transport, and also in private vehicles in the presence of a minor (under the age of 16 years).
These rules are aimed at minimising vapor in common public zones, and come as part and parcel of the Maltese health policies package.
Can You Vape on the Plane When Travelling to Malta?
Vaping is prohibited on the plane, therefore as advised above, vapes need to be kept in hand luggage while travelling. Moreover, vapes need to be held in protected cases, and make sure that they are switched off. This will guarantee that vapes are not activated during flight thus preventing any accidents in an enclosed area, which also by the way happens to be thousands of feet in the air.
Extra attention and a bit of sacrifice by skipping your vaping habits for a couple of hours will help to keep a safe ambience for everyone. We feel you that this can be frustrating and maybe you see no real harm in smoking a little while in the air but vapes can pose real dangers if misused or their batteries could provoke a fire. Therefore, passengers’ safety prevails.
Keep in mind that vaping just like smoking is strictly prohibited by all airlines and aviation authorities, and trying to vape can lead to severe penalties and fines. It is also good to know that aeroplanes have smoke and vapour detectors in lavatories that can sense vaping. This can potentially be erroneously taken as a hazard and/or malfunction, consequently leading to an emergency landing. So, you can imagine the downtime of all involved and the repercussions. Surely not advisable, just please leave vapes in the hand luggage, forget about it for a while. Last but not least, also do not charge your vape onboard the plane.
Can You Vape on the Beach or Tourist Attractions in Malta?
Usually outdoor areas are less restrictive, however we suggest that you always check for any signage or ask for permission to vape in specific attractions or on a beach. Remember that the same rules as tobacco apply, therefore where smoking is prohibited it will also include vaping.
Restaurants, bars, and educational institutions will have restrictions on vaping as in most indoor public spaces.
Can You Vape on Buses and Public Transport in Malta?
Vaping must follow the smoking rules, so it is only permissible in designated areas. This applies for buses and public transport for the safety and health of all passengers. Even in certain public areas or indoors like restaurants, cinemas, or cafeterias, among others, one must check signage or ask.
We can include the private vehicles with this section, where one can vape as long as there are no minors under 16 years of age present. Therefore, it is advisable that you take it for granted that no vaping is allowed on public transport and/or buses.
Product Safety & Standards
In Malta the quality of e-cigarettes, devices and e-liquids is taken seriously, and it must adhere to the European Union`s Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) standards. All this to ensure consumer safety.
Thus, products must feature mandatory health warnings, restrictions on nicotine content, and detailed ingredient lists. Even more, text health warnings are required to cover 32 percent of the front and back of each e-cigarette packaging.
As for e-liquids flavours there is no specific rule banning any in Malta so far. However, as already mentioned, all products must adhere to the TPD standards, showing nicotine content and labelling among other requirements.
By sticking to these requisites, the Maltese authorities are ensuring that the quality and reliability of vaping devices in the local market is up to standard, in line with the EU policy, and most importantly safe to consume.
Import & Retail Regulations
As aforementioned, all trades dealing with vaping in Malta must adhere with the local rules and follow specific guidelines. The Maltese authorities need to be notified by the retailers about what products or which devices they intend to import. This way adherence to safety standards is imposed while transparency is ensured.
Moreover, another sign showing the country`s rigorous approach to regulation is that trades must keep detailed records of their transactions.
Current Status of Disposable Vapes in Malta
Disposable vapes are legally sold in Malta as long as they adhere to the regulatory standards issued by TPD.
However, across Europe many countries are restricting disposables due to environmental concerns (plastic and battery waste) and their appeal to youth. For now, disposables remain available in Malta until further guidance is issued by the EU.
Where Can You Buy Vapes and E-Liquids in Malta?
There are speciality vape shops in Malta just like ours. However, you can buy vapes and e-liquids also from convenience shops which mostly hold basic vaping products and e-liquids, and even some pharmacies which often have a range of vaping products especially nicotine-containing e-liquids.
Obviously a dedicated vape shop is a specialised store which will have an array and a wider selection of vapes, e-liquids, and accessories.
You will expect to find most of these options concentrated in popular tourist hotspots and city centre areas, like in the capital Valletta, but also in places like Sliema, Bugibba, and St Julians.
In Malta one can find a range of devices, from refillable complex vaping systems to simple disposable ones. Also, for e-liquids finding various flavours and nicotine strengths should not be a problem, if so call at our premises and we will be happy to help.
It is also suggested that if you are looking for something specific, do your research and homework, compare online first so that you have an idea which areas in Malta you need to target to attain your coveted vape.
Most Popular Vape Products in Malta
Nowadays there are various valid vaping products, however we at Rolling Buddy are proud to hold one of the best brands out there – Frumist.
Professionals know well that Frumist are one of the best names in the vaping market. Frumist are award winning e-liquid manufacturers and distributors of the finest vaping products in the industry.
Visit our website to check out the vast array of Frumist items in the offing.
Non-Compliance Consequences & Penalties
If businesses fail to stick to the rules as stated by the Maltese authorities they can sustain substantial penalties in the form of fines, but there is also a potential possibility for the revocation of the licence.
Regular inspections and audits are conducted by Malta`s regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with e-cigarette rules, strictly applying penalties for any violations found to maintain the standard high level expected.
These laws show the commitment of the Maltese authorities and the seriousness they approach e-cigarette rules and acquiescence on the subject, prioritising safety and public health.
Wrapping Up
So, there you have it. Now you have your mind at rest that you are consuming vaping in Malta in the appropriate manner.
Our last precious recommendation is to always abide by the rules, especially for your safety. Remember that while it is true that regulatory bodies enforce regulations, however the end-users play a key role in compliance.
Stay in the know about local Maltese rules but also make sure that you are purchasing your vapes from licensed vendors. This way you will contribute to a regulated and safe market.
