Vaping industry calls for smarter nicotine policies as smoking rates surge in South Africa
June 12, 2025 by africannewsagency.com
Vaping industry calls for smarter nicotine policies as smoking rates surge in South Africa
The vaping industry in South Africa calls for smarter nicotine policies amidst rising tobacco smoking rates. Parliament is reviewing the Tobacco Bill to regulate product processing, advertising, and appearance. Vaping advocates stress the need for evidence-based nicotine policies, cessation support, and harm reduction tools like e-cigarettes. With smoking prevalence increasing, there's a call for a shift towards safer alternatives and better enforcement. The Advertising Regulatory Board supports regulating vapor products, highlighting health benefits for smokers who switch. It emphasizes clear communication of benefits while discouraging non-smokers from vaping. Collaboration with the industry led to guidelines including restrictions on marketing to minors and health claims.
20.30% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 8.6 million current smokers in South Africa 35.10% of men are current smokers but only 6.50% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR
