Upcoming Public Hearings on Tobacco and Vaping Regulations in South Africa

As vapers and members of the Vape King community, it’s essential to stay informed about the evolving regulatory landscape for electronic delivery systems (vapes) in South Africa. The Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill of 2022 is currently under review, with public hearings taking place in KwaZulu-Natal from November 8-10, 2024. These hearings mark the final stage of public input as the Portfolio Committee on Health moves forward with legislative decisions on this significant Bill.

Purpose of the Tobacco and Electronic Delivery Systems Bill

This Bill is intended to align South African tobacco control laws with global health standards, including the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention. Key proposals include:

• Designating indoor and specific outdoor public spaces as 100% smoke-free zones.
• Prohibiting cigarette sales through vending machines.
• Requiring plain packaging with graphic health warnings.
• Banning tobacco product displays at points of sale.
• Regulating electronic nicotine and non-nicotine delivery systems (e-cigarettes and vapes) under similar guidelines as traditional tobacco products.

What This Could Mean for the Vaping Community

During previous hearings, a number of individuals and organizations voiced strong opinions about the Bill’s potential impact on both traditional and electronic delivery systems. Supporters of the Bill cite the importance of curbing smoking rates and protecting vulnerable groups, such as youth and pregnant women. However, the Bill’s opponents raise concerns about economic impacts, including job losses and potential boosts to illicit trade if legal sales are more restricted.

Critically for the vaping community, many believe that the Bill’s lack of distinction between electronic vaping products and tobacco products could unfairly lump them together, despite fundamental differences in use, health impact, and product design.

KZN Public Hearing Dates and Venues

If you’re in KwaZulu-Natal and want to contribute, here’s where and when you can join the discussion:

• Friday, 8 November 2024
  • City of Umhlathuze, Nseleni Community Hall, Richards Bay
  • Time: 10:00 – 15:00
• Saturday, 9 November 2024
  • Msunduzi Local Municipality, Ward 15 Community Hall, Embhali, Pietermaritzburg
  • Time: 10:00 – 15:00
• Sunday, 10 November 2024
  • eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, Greenwood Park Community Hall, Durban North
  • Time: 10:00 – 15:00

Why Your Voice Matters

Public hearings like these are a fundamental part of South Africa’s democratic process. They ensure that the concerns and interests of citizens are considered in law-making. Whether you’re a vaper, part of the industry, or a concerned South African, these hearings are a platform to present your views on how the proposed legislation might affect public health, personal choice, and the economy.

For media inquiries or further information, you can contact the Parliamentary Communication Services directly:

Name: Malatswa Molepo (Mr)
Parliamentary Communication Services
Tel: 021 403 8438
Cell: 081 512 7920
E-mail: [email protected]