The Government needs to update its tobacco control laws to address the growing use of e-cigarettes (vapes).
This was a concern during the ongoing joint needs assessment of tobacco control in Fiji, says the coordinator of the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) secretariat, Andrew Black.
“The use of e-cigarettes has exploded around the world,” Mr Black said.
“We know that e-cigarettes are becoming popular in this country as well, and it’s a cause for concern.”
Mr Black warned e-cigarettes contain high levels of nicotine and are often flavoured to appeal to young people, making them highly addictive. He stressed the need for regulatory action, suggesting that Fiji either bans e-cigarettes or enforces strict regulations like those for traditional tobacco products.
“The very first aim of the Government is to keep them out of the hands of kids in the first place.”
Mr Black said the issue was expected to be a key focus of discussions between WHO FCTC representatives and local stakeholders as they assess Fiji’s tobacco control framework this week.
