The Ministry of Health is adamant in its stance against the import and sale of e-cigarettes, while the Ministry of Industry and Trade is proposing a pilot program to manage their use. During a session on state management responsibility for electronic cigarettes and heated cigarettes, Minister of Health Dao Hong Lan expressed concerns about the impact of these products on the younger generation.
The Ministry of Industry and Trade’s proposal is part of an effort to control illegal trade of e-cigarettes. However, Deputy Minister Phan Thi Thang defended the pilot plan as a means to improve management and ensure public health. There is still disagreement between the two ministries on this issue, with concerns raised about potential negative impacts if legalization occurs.
Experts and delegates have also voiced reservations about piloting e-cigarette management, citing their addictive and carcinogenic nature. The World Health Organization and the Ministry of Health have found that e-cigarette use among young people is increasing, leading to health risks and potential long-term consequences.
Overall, there continues to be debate over how best to regulate e-cigarettes in Vietnam, with differing viewpoints on whether to pilot their management or impose a ban in order to protect public health and prevent harm to future generations.
