Read articles from Oceania

April 08, 2026 by scoop.co.nz

Growing controversy is emerging over how recent studies linking vaping to cancer are being reported and interpreted in the media. Advocacy group CAPHRA argues that coverage has amplified alarming conclusions without adequately reflecting scientific uncertainty or the broader context of relative risk. The discussion centres on a high-profile review suggesting that e-cigarettes may be carcinogenic, based largely on laboratory data, animal studies and biomarkers rather than long-term human evidence. CAPHRA emphasises that the key issue is not whether vaping is risk-free, but whether public communication accurately conveys that it is generally considered less harmful than smoking. Concerns are being raised that overstated or decontextualised reporting could mislead the public and discourage smokers from switching to lower-risk alternatives. The debate highlights a broader challenge in public health messaging: balancing precaution with proportional, evidence-based communication as research on newer nicotine products continues to evolve.

March 23, 2026 by youtube.com

I discuss Australia's approach to e-cigarettes, which essentially limits them to prescription-only. I give 5 reasons why this is a problematic approach; how this overly restrictive regulation has created a violent illicit market; and compare how Australia has fared vs. New Zealand which embraces harm reduction with e-cigarettes.

March 23, 2026 by scoop.co.nz

CAPHRA warns that New Zealand could repeat Australia’s illicit tobacco crisis if it relies too much on restrictions, high prices, and enforcement. The concern follows reports that tobacco smuggling in New Zealand is becoming more organised and large-scale. Officials fear this could lead to gang-related violence similar to what has been seen in Australia. CAPHRA’s Executive Coordinator, Nancy Loucas, emphasized that Australia should be seen as a warning rather than a model. She argued that limiting access to safer nicotine alternatives can push consumers toward illegal markets controlled by criminal networks.

February 25, 2026 by theconversation.com

Organised crime in Australia, spanning decades, thrives on illegal markets. Historically, prohibition and stringent regulations drive criminal enterprises, like 1920s razor gangs or recent tobacco wars. Despite efforts to curb illicit activities, escalating enforcement hasn't deterred the trade. Today, illicit drug markets cost billions, with drugs like nicotine rapidly growing. Outcomes mirror past failures when suppressing gambling, drugs, and sex work, reinforcing criminal control. Adjusting regulations, as seen in cannabis decriminalization proposals, can reduce organized crime impact and enhance public safety. Balancing control and legality can combat criminal influence and protect consumers, ultimately weakening organized crime's financial incentives and reducing violence in society.

February 17, 2026 by nytimes.com

Australia has the most expensive cigarettes in the world, a pack of midmarket cigarettes costing on average about 55 Australian dollars, or almost $40, nearly double what it will set you back in New York City. A series of steep tax hikes — eight in 10 years — were put in place to reduce the rate of smoking, which has steadily declined. But the high prices have also given rise to a thriving black market now estimated to be a multibillion-dollar industry that accounts for as much as half of all tobacco sales in the country.

February 17, 2026 by nytimes.com

Australia has the most expensive cigarettes in the world, a pack of midmarket cigarettes costing on average about 55 Australian dollars, or almost $40, nearly double what it will set you back in New York City. A series of steep tax hikes — eight in 10 years — were put in place to reduce the rate of smoking, which has steadily declined. But the high prices have also given rise to a thriving black market now estimated to be a multibillion-dollar industry that accounts for as much as half of all tobacco sales in the country.

February 09, 2026 by skynews.com.au

Victorian Liberal MP Mary Aldred has rebuked the federal government for not engaging law enforcement to tackle the “serious problem” of illicit tobacco across the country - which is costing Australia billions. In recent months, the Albanese government has faced mounting pressure over the “staggering” level of black market tobacco and e-cigarette trading in Australia, which has boomed as a result of Labor’s excise settings.

February 09, 2026 by skynews.com.au

Victorian Liberal MP Mary Aldred has rebuked the federal government for not engaging law enforcement to tackle the “serious problem” of illicit tobacco across the country - which is costing Australia billions. In recent months, the Albanese government has faced mounting pressure over the “staggering” level of black market tobacco and e-cigarette trading in Australia, which has boomed as a result of Labor’s excise settings.

February 09, 2026 by harmreductionaustralia.org.au

See HRA’s new Tobacco Harm Reduction Policy Brief to understand why Australia should urgently reform its current tobacco control strategy to an evidenced-based harm reduction approach including reducing tobacco excise, establishing a legal, regulated market for lower risk nicotine products and, shifting investment from enforcement to regulation…

February 04, 2026 by waateanews.com

Medsafe approved Aotearoa's first medically endorsed quit-vaping product, recognizing vaping addiction as a health issue. The product targets high-frequency nicotine exposure associated with vaping and facilitates controlled nicotine reduction. The Foundation highlights accessibility concerns, urging wider availability and affordability, especially for youth. They emphasize the product as part of a holistic approach to public health, underscoring the need for education, regulation, and prevention.