In recent weeks, the Ministry of Industry and Trade has proposed a pilot program to manage the trade and distribution of e-cigarettes, while the Ministry of Health continues to advocate for a complete ban on their import and sale. At an explanation session on state management responsibility for electronic cigarettes and heated cigarettes, Minister of Health Dao Hong Lan emphasized the harm that e-cigarettes pose to public health, especially young people.
The Ministry is working on a resolution to ban the production, sales, import, and advertising of these products in order to maintain consistency in regulations. However, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Phan Thi Thang defended the pilot proposal as a means to improve management and ensure the health of the public. Despite ongoing disagreement between the two ministries on this issue, experts and delegates have expressed reservations about allowing e-cigarettes into Vietnam’s market.
Experts warn that e-cigarettes are addictive and carcinogenic, with research showing that their use among young people is on the rise. The World Health Organization has also raised concerns about their potential long-term consequences for public health. While some see a ban as extreme measures that may lead to black markets for these products, others believe it is necessary to protect young people from their harmful effects.
Overall, there is ongoing debate over whether to regulate or ban e-cigarettes in Vietnam. As this issue continues to be debated by policymakers and experts alike, it remains clear that public health must remain at the forefront of any decision made regarding their trade and distribution in our country.
