New Zealand to Repeal Law Banning Tobacco Sales for Future Generations

New Zealand to Repeal Law Banning Tobacco Sales for Future Generations

VoM News Desk | February 27, 2024 | 02:31 PM IST | New Zealand, World | Follow on Google News

New Zealand to Repeal Law Banning Tobacco Sales for Future Generations

New Zealand to Repeal Law Banning Tobacco Sales for Future Generations

New Zealand is set to repeal a world-first law that would have banned tobacco sales for individuals born after January 1, 2009.

The law, scheduled to take effect in July, aimed to implement the toughest anti-tobacco rules globally by reducing nicotine content, limiting tobacco retailers by over 90%, and prohibiting sales to the specified birth cohort.

The new coalition government elected in October confirmed the repeal without seeking public comment, drawing criticism for potential adverse health impacts, particularly on Maori and Pasifika populations with higher smoking rates.

Associate Health Minister Casey Costello stated that while the government remains committed to reducing smoking, it will adopt a different regulatory approach to discourage smoking and minimize harm.

The decision has faced backlash for going against robust research evidence supporting the law’s effectiveness in increasing quit rates and preventing young people from taking up smoking.

The repeal is expected to preserve health inequities and has prompted concerns about its impact on vulnerable populations. Tightened regulations on vaping are also planned to discourage young people from picking up the habit.

The government’s decision reflects a shift in strategy to address smoking-related issues while considering alternative measures to promote public health.

VoM News Desk

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