Ban on vape, e-cigarettes for under-18s on the cards
Pakistan's Senate is considering a bill to ban the sale and use of vapes and e-cigarettes to those under 18.Summary
The Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services in Pakistan is preparing to introduce the 'Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (Regulation) Bill' to address the increasing use of vapes and e-cigarettes, particularly among young people. The bill proposes strict regulations on the sale, marketing, and use of these products in Islamabad, including a ban on sales within 50 meters of educational institutions and a minimum age of 18 for purchase. Vaping would be prohibited in public spaces like transport, government offices, and parks, and advertising would be completely banned. The legislation also mandates quality control standards, including nicotine concentration limits and child-resistant packaging. Violations would result in fines and potential legal prosecution. Committee members emphasized the health risks associated with vaping, despite its marketing as a safer alternative to traditional smoking, and are urging swift legislative action.
(Source：The Express Tribune)
