The proposed law will review the current tobacco control regime to protect young people from exposure to e-cigarettes. Health Bureau may define penalties for e-cigarette administration and expand non-smoking areas outdoors, while also banning new tobacco products and tobacco imitations.
In response to a query from lawmaker Wong Kit Cheng, Alvis Lo, the director of Health Bureau, highlighted ongoing communication with relevant agencies and public consultation efforts to expedite the law revision process. Current regulations already prohibit the manufacture, distribution, sale, import, export, and transport of e-cigarettes in and out of the region.
From January to August, authorities confiscated 140 e-cigarette devices and 60,871 e-liquid bottles. Customs continues to enhance risk control for imported mail and customs inspections at border points.
According to a 2021-2023 report, e-cigarette usage among secondary school students aged 13 to 15 has risen from 2.6% in 2015 to 4.0% in 2021, surpassing traditional cigarette use at 2.1%. Internal consultations on the total ban have concluded, with a public consultation planned later. If consensus is reached, legislative processes may start next year.
The government also intends to extend smoking bans in outdoor areas, focusing on schools and kindergartens as pilot zones, to be implemented by the end of the year. Alvis Lo emphasized the commitment to fostering a tobacco-free environment through law revisions, awareness campaigns, and cessation support.
