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Every bar and restaurant in Spain is set to see a major change as the Spanish government has approved a draft bill to outlaw smoking in many new areas. The stricter new measures will come as a major blow to smokers who will soon face new rules against having a cigarette on the terraces of drinking establishments. Until now, smoking areas of bars have been a haven for those who enjoy doing so after the act was banned inside.

However, this is set to change as the Spanish government seeks to close the loophole of smoking in the terraces of restaurants and bars. The announcement comes as Spain has increased the price point of many popular cigarette brands by 25% per packet.

The change in cost will take effect the coming weekend (December 13), with brands loved by local residents jumping up to €6.25 (£5.46).

Alongside the prohibition of tobacco on terraces, smoking will be banned in public swimming pools, bus shelters, stations, playgrounds and even university campuses.

In addition to those, hospitals, schools and social centres will see a new 15-metre zone surrounding it where smoking will no longer be allowed.

For smokers who enjoy concerts, outdoor shows and festivals, smoking may also be banned in these facilities too.

The prohibition comes with the risk of a hefty fine, as penalties for smoking in restricted areas are being tightened. Fines could reportedly reach up to €600,000 (£524,193) in the most serious cases, with those who fail to enforce the rule add risk of being penalised too.

Under the new rules, bars in Spain will be required to display signs that clearly inform customers that smoking is prohibited. If they fail to comply, the consequences will fall on both the individual and the establishment.

The draft bill would also prohibit the sale of single-use e-cigarettes and restrict all tobacco advertising. This includes sponsorships and promotions at events aimed at reducing tobacco's visibility and appeal, particularly among young people.

The law is currently in a public consultation phase, providing associations, businesses, regional authorities, and individual citizens with the opportunity to submit their input. Following this review, the bill will require approval from both the House of Representatives and the Senate before it can be enacted. If adopted, its full implementation is anticipated over the next few years.