Will Sas New Vaping Laws Lead To More Smokers Instead Of Fewer?

Some studies show that strict vape laws could push more people to cigarette smoking.

In 2021, almost 30 of people used tobacco products, including e-cigarettes. In the same year, about 42 000 people died because of tobacco-related health problems.

South Africas new Tobacco Bill wants to regulate vapes as tobacco products, banning public use and advertising, to stop young people from picking up the habit.

Would the Bill result in the desired outcome?

In todays newsletter , Christina Pitt asks if stricter vaping laws will make more people smoke. Sign up for our newsletter now .

Parliaments portfolio committee on health has called for more research on how the health risks of e-cigarettes and conventional smoking compare, in order to get a better grip on South Africas relatively controversial new Tobacco Bill.

If the Bill is passed, e-cigarettes will be seen as tobacco products , which will mean that vapers wont be able to puff in public spaces, ads for these e-devices will be banned and the health minister will say how the packaging and labelling of the products should look.

The committees concerns were raised in a report on the Bills public consultations that the legislation doesnt distinguish between e-cigarettes and more conventional tobacco products nor considers claims that vapes could be used as tools to help smokers quit.

In 2021, almost 30 of South Africans older than 15 used tobacco products, including e-cigarettes. That same year, about 42 000 people died from tobacco-related diseases like cancer and heart and lung problems in the country.