Officials ‘plugging loopholes’ in proposed Hong Kong ban on e-cigarettes, as industry vows opposition
Source says legislation will not target possession of products, meaning consumers can still use previously bought items
Officials are exploring ways to plug possible loopholes and close off access to e-cigarettes or new smoking products – especially for young people – following an announcement by Hong Kong’s leader of a proposed ban on such items.
On Wednesday, tobacco industry players and consumers expressed disappointment and vowed to oppose the ban raised by Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor.
The ban on the import, manufacture, sale, distribution and advertisement of e-cigarettes and other new smoking products was to protect the health of Hongkongers, particularly children and teenagers, Lam stressed.
In her policy address report, Lam stated there was also “a lack of sufficient evidence to prove the products can help quit smoking”. The report further said “the public may underestimate the harmful effects of these products”. A government source said the city’s leader settled on a full ban as there was strong public opinion over the issue.
At present, there are no laws prohibiting the import or use of e-cigarettes and other new smoking products in Hong Kong. Consumers can also buy small quantities of the items from elsewhere and bring them into the city for self-use.