While manufacturers of vaping products are still adamant that electronic nicotine delivery system devices are a less harmful than traditional cigerattes, the South African government remains unconvinced.
It seems that the government still feel that these ‘less harmful’ products cannot be marketed responsibly to smokers without enticing ‘new users’ to take up the habit, promoting the use of tobacco.
As such, the government has put forward the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill.
BILL TO REDUCE TOBACCO USE
The bill aims to regulate tobacco products and electronic delivery systems (ENDS), while also reducing tobacco use and protecting public health.
The bill – which is still in the process of being gazetted – will require vape manufacturing companies to use plain packaging and include graphic health warnings on this packaging.
The bill will also ban the use of these devices in indoor public places and certain outdoor areas
The products will also not be allowed to be sold in vending machines.
There will also be strict prohibitions around displays and promotions (i.e .no adverts, marketing) of these products. The bill stipulated that these products may not be sold to children and cannot be freely distributed, like marketers generally do with free samples.
FINAL PUBLIC HEARING
On 29 January, the Vapour Products Association of South Africa (VPASA) made a last call on vapers and the vaping community to speak up during the final public hearings on the new control bill.
The hearings are set to take place in Trompsburg, Free State, on Friday, 31 January 2025, and in George, Western Cape, on Sunday, 2 February 2025.
VPASA CEO, Asanda Gcoyi, says it is important for the vaping community to take part in these hearings. “This is your chance to make sure your voice is heard. The decisions made now will affect how vaping is regulated in South Africa. Vapers need to share their concerns and experiences,” she said.
She also pointed out that vaping products, like e-cigarette refills, are now part of the Consumer Price Index (CPI). This means they are officially recognized as consumer goods, and their regulation could impact prices and availability.
VPASA said that it supported the government’s goal of protecting young people and vulnerable groups from accessing vaping products. However, the association also believes that vaping can help adult smokers switch from harmful cigarettes to less harmful alternatives. “Vaping can be a tool for harm reduction. It’s important that the bill considers this,” Gcoyi added.
DO YOU THINK THE NEW BILL ADDRESSES THE CONCERNS AROUND TOBACCO USE OR IS IT TOO RESTRICTIVE?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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