Vietnam's Ministry of Health is drafting amendments to the Law on Prevention and Control of Tobacco Harms, proposing a comprehensive ban on the possession, transport, use, and manufacture of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. The draft aims to close legal loopholes, protect youth from new nicotine risks, and reduce the significant health and economic burden of tobacco use, with implementation targeted for January 1, 2027.
Key Takeaways:
- Total Ban Proposed: Draft law seeks to ban e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products entirely.
- Health Crisis: Tobacco causes over 100,000 deaths annually in Vietnam.
- Youth Focus: Stricter rules aim to curb rising usage among teenagers.
- Ad Restrictions: Expanded bans on advertising, especially on social media.
The proposed amendment to the Law on Prevention and Control of Tobacco Harms refers to a legislative initiative by Vietnam's Ministry of Health designed to address the evolving landscape of nicotine consumption. Faced with high smoking rates and the rapid emergence of new products, the Ministry is taking a decisive stance to safeguard public health.
Closing the Legal Gap on New Tobacco Products
On January 13, the Ministry of Health held a consultative conference to gather feedback on the draft amended law. A primary focus is the inclusion of explicit definitions and regulations for electronic cigarettes (vapes) and heated tobacco products (HTPs). For years, these products have existed in a legal gray area, growing in popularity—especially among youth—without clear governance.
The draft proposes a strict prohibition, banning not only the use but also the possession, transportation, and manufacture of these devices and their components. This move signals a shift from passive management to proactive elimination of these new risks.
The Health and Economic Toll of Tobacco
Associate Professor Dr. Ha Anh Duc, Director of the Department of Medical Examination and Treatment Management, highlighted the grim reality: Vietnam remains a country with high tobacco use. Every year, over 100,000 people die from tobacco-related diseases, including 18,800 deaths from passive exposure. The economic burden is equally staggering, with healthcare costs for tobacco-related illnesses estimated at 108.7 trillion VND in 2022—five times the revenue generated from tobacco taxes.
Dr. Duc warned against the misconception that e-cigarettes are "less harmful," emphasizing their addictive nicotine content and potential health risks. The rapid uptake among young people makes the legal amendment urgent.
Tightening Advertising and Retail
The draft law also seeks to clamp down on marketing. It proposes expanding prohibited behaviors regarding advertising, promotion, and sponsorship to cover e-cigarettes and HTPs, with a specific focus on digital marketing and social media. Retail regulations will also be scrutinized, particularly concerning the proximity of sales points to schools and healthcare facilities, to protect vulnerable groups.
Shielding Policy from Industry Interference
Notably, the draft introduces a principle to protect tobacco control policies from the interference of commercial interests, aligning with WHO recommendations. This aims to increase transparency and limit the tobacco industry's influence on public health legislation.
Future Outlook: Implementation by 2027
The draft law also proposes increasing health warnings on packaging to cover at least 85% of the surface area and expanding cessation support to include users of new tobacco products. The amended law is expected to take effect from January 1, 2027, providing a transition period for preparation. This comprehensive approach reflects Vietnam's commitment to reducing the disease burden and protecting future generations.
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