6-6-2024 (HONG KONG) In a resolute move to safeguard public health, Hong Kong authorities announced plans on Thursday (June 6) to impose a comprehensive ban on e-cigarettes, citing a societal “consensus” on the need for action and the detrimental impact these products have on the well-being of young people.
This latest development comes approximately two years after the Chinese city implemented restrictions on the import, manufacture, and sale of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. However, the proposed blanket ban aims to close any remaining loopholes and extend the prohibition to encompass retail buyers, even those intending to consume the products in private settings.
During a press conference, Secretary for Health Lo Chung-mau made the government’s stance unequivocal, stating, “We will fully ban all alternative smoking products,” employing the official term used to refer to products such as e-cigarettes.
Under existing legislation, individuals found in possession of e-cigarettes for commercial purposes in Hong Kong can face severe penalties, including up to seven years in prison and a substantial fine of HK$2 million (US$256,000). Sellers and manufacturers are also subject to potential imprisonment of up to six months.
Addressing the rationale behind the proposed ban, Deputy Secretary for Health Eddie Lee emphasized, “A blanket ban on alternative smoking products has become a consensus in society… It is time to ban all forms of possession of alternative smoking products, including for personal use.”
In addition to the comprehensive e-cigarette prohibition, city officials unveiled a series of other stringent measures aimed at curbing smoking and its associated risks. Among these initiatives is a ban on smoking while queuing in outdoor public areas and the sharing of cigarettes with minors.
Furthermore, the government proposed outlawing flavored tobacco products, citing survey results that indicate their particular appeal to women and young people. Lo expressed his hope that the e-cigarette ban and other proposed measures would be introduced to the legislature this year.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported last year that 34 countries have implemented bans on the sale of e-cigarettes, while 87 nations have implemented either full or partial regulations governing these products.
Hong Kong authorities have set an ambitious goal of reducing the smoking prevalence rate to 7.8 percent by next year, down from the current rate of 9.1 percent recorded in 2023.
