Belgian supermarkets will be allowed to resume selling cigarettes from 1 January 2027, after the federal government accepted a ruling by the Constitutional Court that overturned the existing ban, according to Tobacco Journal.

Since April 2025, shops larger than 400 square metres, including most supermarkets, had been prohibited from selling tobacco products, while smaller outlets such as newsagents and night shops could continue sales if products were kept out of sight.

The Constitutional Court found this distinction between large and small retailers to be discriminatory and therefore unlawful, giving authorities until 2027 to revise the legislation. Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke has decided not to introduce a replacement ban, effectively allowing supermarkets back into the tobacco market.

Tobacco products will still be required to remain out of sight in all retail environments. The decision has been welcomed by supermarket representatives, while newsagents, who had benefited from reduced competition, have voiced criticism.