Vaping Industry Proposes Liquor-Style Licensing to Combat Youth Access in South Africa
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Cape Town – The Vapour Products Association of South Africa (VPASA) has put forth a detailed proposal to Parliament for implementing a licensing framework for vaping product sales, mirroring the existing system for liquor sales. The move is a proactive measure aimed at tackling the escalating concern of youth access to vaping products in the country.
In a briefing document, VPASA highlighted the growing popularity of vaping among current and ex-smokers, acknowledging a concurrent rise in youth uptake that has spurred public health concerns. The proposed licensing system, similar to that governing alcohol, seeks to regulate and monitor the sale of vaping products, thereby restricting their availability to underage individuals. VPASA asserts that this approach will also mitigate health risks associated with illegal and counterfeit vaping devices and ensure predictable compliance with government regulations.
Key objectives of VPASA’s proposed framework include:
- Restricting Youth Access: The primary goal is to significantly reduce the accessibility and prevalence of vaping products among the youth population.
- Controlling Illegal Products: By establishing a regulated environment, the framework aims to curb the proliferation of illegal and counterfeit vaping devices, which pose significant health risks.
- Ensuring Compliance: The system would facilitate predictable compliance regimes with applicable government agencies and regulators, creating a more orderly market.
VPASA believes that a licensing model offers a robust solution for addressing concerns surrounding youth vaping while allowing legitimate businesses to operate under clear guidelines. The proposal underscores the industry’s willingness to collaborate with policymakers to ensure responsible sales practices and protect public health.
