After embracing the idea of tobacco harm reduction, the Philippines prepares to introduce a regulation on various safer alternatives to combustible cigarettes, including vaping and heated tobacco products. It seems that Thailand will follow suit in adopting a similar state policy very soon.
Welcoming the idea of tobacco harm reduction is a great way to solve the current smoking issues, according to the Philippine representative at CAPHRA, Clarisse Virgino. Additionally, the president of Nicotine Consumers Union of the Philippines (NCUP) Anton Israel also stated that, many countries have understood the role that vaping products and other smoke-free alternatives play in reducing the harms caused by smoking.
Israel added, Asian consumers need to be on par with EU and US customers when it comes to the right of accessing less harmful alternatives to cigarettes. Having the right regulation will help enhance the vaping industry, while also making it grow. Avoiding the underground vape market and sketchy products is crucial here. But when you have regulated, professional businesses selling this type of stuff, it leads to much better results.
The PECIA president Joey Dulay notes that ASEAN countries like Thailand will most likely have their own Vaping Bill, which will hopefully be approved. This is the type of thing that will eliminate a lot of concerns, while also regulating the nicotine delivery systems in the country and providing more control.
At this time Thailand parliament has already drafted a legislative bill focused on legalizing e-cigs, backed up by many officials . That’s beneficial to crack down on the thriving black market fed by bans on vaping. Having an official support system brings in much better results and efficiency.
Studies from the EU, UK and US showed that vaping is a much safer alternative when compared to regular cigarettes. Educating customers is also just as important, as it helps people make better choices. Thailand had more than 10 million smokers in 2021 alone, and more than half of them said they won’t quit anytime soon.
Right now, around 50,000 Thai people die for smoking related issues, so alternatives like e-cigarettes are more than welcome. After the new Vape Bill will be enacted, more than 17 million smokers might reap the benefits of tobacco harm reduction.
