Master-Dr. Nguyen Tuan Lam, an expert from the World Health Organization (WHO) in Vietnam, has proposed that Vietnam should focus on blocking the supply of and preventing the smuggling, sale, and advertising of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco.
Dr. Lam made the proposal during a press briefing organized by the Ministry of Health on the implementation of the National Assembly’s Resolution on the activities of the eighth session of the 15th National Assembly regarding e-cigarettes and heated tobacco in Hanoi on December 25.
He stressed the importance of enhancing enforcement at border gates and sales points, with high fines for violations to serve as a deterrent.
He proposed organizing strong, sustained campaigns, similar to the mandatory helmet law and the ban on drinking and driving. Additionally, regular surveys and assessments should be conducted to monitor usage levels and the effectiveness of the enforcement of the ban.
The Ministry of Health is preparing a proposal for the Prime Minister on two key actions, including (i) drafting a government plan to implement National Assembly Resolution 173 on e-cigarettes and heated tobacco from 2025 and (ii) amending the government’s Decree 117/2020 to include penalties for offenses related to e-cigarettes, heated tobacco, and harmful substances with simplified procedures. (Nhan Dan)