Smoke-free alternatives could help cut smoking deaths in South Africa, say industry players
October 21, 2025 by iol.co.za
Smoke-free alternatives could help cut smoking deaths in South Africa, say industry players
Industry representatives say that expanding access to smoke-free products could help South Africa reduce smoking-related deaths as the government finalises new tobacco legislation. However, the high cost of such alternatives remains a major concern. South Africa has over 8.6 million smokers, and smoking causes around 32,000 deaths each year, according to Tobacco Control Data. Companies like Philip Morris International (PMI) argue that smoke-free products such as nicotine pouches could play a crucial role in cutting smoking-related deaths.
23.30% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 10.9 million current smokers in South Africa 39.30% of men are current smokers but only 8.50% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR
