Facing the reality that smoking rates among men and youth remain among the highest in the region, experts and regulators are proposing fundamental legislative changes to restrict access to these harmful products.
The paradox of low prices and tobacco prevalence
At a consultation workshop on March 9, delegates highlighted a concerning fact: despite rising average incomes, the price of a traditional pack of cigarettes in the domestic market remains low (ranging from 15,000 to 20,000 VND). This price “stability,” combined with the lax enforcement of bans on sales to minors, has made tobacco easily accessible to young people.
Statistics show that Vietnam currently ranks third in ASEAN for the number of adult male smokers. The consequences extend beyond health, draining the economy as tobacco-related losses account for 1.14% of the national GDP.
New highlights in the proposed law amendments
The draft amendment focuses on filling legal “loopholes,” particularly regarding next-generation tobacco products. Key focuses include:
-
Absolute ban on new tobacco products: Suspending all production, trade, transportation, and advertising of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products.
-
Eliminating displays: Prohibiting retail outlets from displaying tobacco in any form to neutralize visual promotional effects.
-
Clear classification: Requiring precise definitions between natural and synthetic nicotine to avoid confusion in handling violations.
-
Increasing warning size: Proposing to raise the coverage of graphic health warnings to at least 75% of the packaging area.
Strengthening oversight and sanctions
To ensure the law is effective in practice, experts suggest incorporating the supervisory role of socio-political organizations. Additionally, management mechanisms must extend to cyberspace to control cross-border advertising. There is a strong consensus on the need for tougher sanctions, including criminal prosecution for serious violations and the revocation of business licenses for outlets located near schools.