Vape news at the start of 2023

Here and there, we hear information and misinformation about vape. Here are a few words to clear things up!

Since the end of 2022, there have been numerous reports that governments are planning to ban flavoring or tax e-cigarettes. But what's really going on?

• CNCT and their Inquiry

After 2 years of research into the consumption and marketing of vaping products, the CNCT (Comité national contre le tabagisme) has called for a ban on flavors in e-liquids, with the exception of "classic" flavors.

What are the reasons behind the organization's claim?

In the first instance, specialist stores and tobacconists are said not to comply with regulations concerning the advertising of their products, with only 5% of outlets complying with this legislation.

What's more, as tobacconists are not specialized in vaping, they would not be able to advise first-time vapers properly. The committee therefore suggested three major changes to the vape market:

- Better supervision of product sales

- New nicotine regulations

- An immediate ban on flavors for e-liquids (which they believe would encourage younger people to start vaping).

• Globale Vision on vape

If we take a broader look at Europe and the rest of the world, the question of flavors and their prohibition also arises, as does that of the taxation of vape products.

> Puffs and flavors are at risk, as are integrated batteries, and new measures are under discussion concerning rechargeable batteries.

> Countries that have already overtaxed vaping: Bulgaria, soon to be followed by Estonia.

> Countries that are heavily considering it: Saudi Arabia, with a 150% increase in taxes, and South Africa.

> Countries against flavors: the United States.

> Countries in favor of vaping: Spain does not intend to impose additional taxes before the next presidential elections, Italy wants to block taxes, while the UK wants to keep its legislation as it is and continue to encourage smokers to switch to e-cigarettes.

• Fivape and France Vapotage Response

Fivape (Fédération interprofessionnelle de la vape) and France Vapotage share the same fears as 86% of vapoteurs regarding the CNCT's requests. Indeed, 4 million vapers in France are concerned that a ban on flavors would be highly detrimental to e-cigarettes. E-cigarettes are undeniably the best way to quit smoking.

The Fivape denounces the CNCT for attacking the solution by pointing out that e-liquid flavors are an incentive for young people. In fact, the average age of vape shop customers is 38.

France Vapotage also points out that e-liquids are 95% less harmful than combustion cigarettes, and that after more than 10 years in existence, it's time to recognize their effectiveness and near-zero risk. The organization adds that to perpetuate their use and combat smoking, products should not be taxed more heavily, and a wide range of choices should be maintained to attract smokers to turn to them.

Finally, according to a survey, 58% of vapers say they would switch back to combustion cigarettes if flavors were banned.

Note that this would jeopardize many jobs in the vape sector (15,000 according to Fivape).

What are your opinion on it ?