E-cigarette association calls for separate regulations

Equating vaping with smoking, as in current legislation, fails to protect the interests of smokers.

This was expressed by the Vapour Products Association of South Africa (VPASA) at a provincial public hearing on the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill held at eNseleni community hall on Friday.

The Bill is a vital updated draft legislation that seeks to protect the health of all South Africans by regulating the use, packaging and marketing of tobacco and electronic delivery systems, including e-cigarettes.

VPASA has consistently advocated for a balanced, science-based Electronic Delivery Systems Bill that recognises and promotes harm reduction rather than obstructing it.

The association’s CEO, Asanda Gcoyi said such a Bill should protect both the interests of minors and smokers who are looking for alternatives without necessarily seeking to quit.

“These public hearings are a crucial opportunity to shape vaping regulations…

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