BENDSTA seeks Prime Minister’s intervention over vape ordinance
BENDSTA is requesting the Prime Minister to review the vape ordinance, arguing a ban is discriminatory and harmful.Summary
The Bangladesh Electronic Nicotine Delivery System Traders Association (BENDSTA) has appealed to the Prime Minister for a parliamentary review of the Smoking and Tobacco Products Use (Control) Ordinance, 2025, specifically regarding the ban on vape products. BENDSTA argues the ban is “systemic policy discrimination” and contradicts the High Court’s directives which deemed Section 6(c) of the ordinance unconstitutional, allowing legally imported vapes to be sold. They advocate for a regulated framework, similar to those in many other countries, citing the potential for harm reduction and smoking cessation. The association estimates 1 million adults in Bangladesh use vape products and warns a ban will lead to a black market with substandard products and risks to public health. BENDSTA also emphasizes the economic impact, stating over 600 chain stores and 100 businesses are at risk, impacting thousands of families. They connect their request to the Prime Minister’s reform plan, suggesting a UK NHS-inspired health policy would benefit from a regulated vape market.
(Source：The Business Standard)
