Malaysia is preparing to impose a nationwide vaping ban, a move applauded by health advocates but strongly opposed by vape industry groups who warn it will drive trade underground.
Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad said Malaysia is “moving towards” a total ban on the sale and use of vapes to curb misuse. The measure will be implemented in phases, starting with open-system vapes before extending to all products, Channel News Asia reported.
“It is no longer if we ban, but when we ban,” Dzulkefly told reporters on Sept. 11, adding that a Cabinet paper on the matter is being finalized.
The Malaysia Retail Electronic Cigarette Association (MRECA) criticized the plan, saying prohibition would fuel illicit sales. “Consumers may end up exposed to products without knowing they contain illicit substances, leading to addiction,” MRECA president Adzwan Ab Manas told The Straits Times.
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