The government of New Zealand is actively pushing forward with its vision for a smoke-free future, marked by the recent introduction of the Smoke-free Environments and Regulated Products (Amendment) Bill. This legislative move represents a key milestone in the country’s broader strategy to eliminate smoking by 2025, aiming to reduce the harms associated with smoking and regulate the rising use of vaping products.
The amendment is championed by public health leaders from Associate Health Minister Dr. Ayesha Verrall of the Labour Party to the Te Pāti Māori party, aims to tighten regulations on tobacco sales and marketing while imposing stricter controls on vaping products.
This initiative addresses rising concerns over the health risks of smoking and vaping, particularly among young people. The legislation is seen as essential for reducing the nation’s high smoking rates, especially among Māori and Pacific communities. Supporters believe it could significantly improve public health outcomes across diverse demographics.
A crucial element of the bill is the significant tightening of restrictions on tobacco product sales. The legislation seeks to drastically reduce the number of outlets permitted to sell tobacco, particularly in areas deemed vulnerable to smoking-related harm, including communities with high smoking rates and schools.
Supermarkets and dairies (corner stores) will face stricter conditions, with some outlets losing their right to sell tobacco products entirely. This measure is designed to make tobacco less accessible to the general public and deter young people from starting to smoke.
The bill reinforces existing advertising bans, eliminating any form of public promotion of tobacco products. Retailers will be prohibited from displaying tobacco items, a practice that has previously drawn criticism for increasing the visibility and normalisation of smoking.
While vaping is considered a tool for smokers to quit, its growing appeal to youth has raised alarm bells. In response, the amendment bill introduces stringent regulations on the sale and promotion of vaping products. It will limit their sale to licensed retailers and ensure that these products are not easily accessible to underage users.
The government is set to enforce new rules on the content and flavours of e-cigarettes, a move aimed at curbing the attractiveness of vaping to younger audiences. Flavoured vaping liquids, which have been a key factor in the rise of vaping among teenagers, will face particular scrutiny under these regulations.
The amendment bill strikes a balance by acknowledging the role of vaping as a smoking cessation tool while ensuring that safeguards are in place to prevent non-smokers, particularly young people, from adopting the habit.
While public health benefits are at the forefront of this bill, it will undeniably be significantly impact Kiwi businesses and the country’s sustainability vision.
Retailers, especially small business owners, are likely to feel the impact of tighter sales restrictions. Many dairies and small stores, which have historically relied on tobacco sales as a key revenue stream, will need to adapt to the new regulations or risk losing a substantial portion of their income.
For businesses involved in vaping products, stricter controls on sales and advertising mean that the industry will need to align closely with the law, ensuring compliance while maintaining their role in helping smokers quit. However, these businesses could also play a crucial part in promoting a smoke-free culture, positioning vaping as a temporary aid for quitting rather than a lifestyle choice.
From a sustainability perspective, New Zealand will reduce the environmental footprint associated with the tobacco industry. Tobacco farming and cigarette production contribute to deforestation, pollution, and waste from cigarette butts. By curbing smoking rates this amendment bill is expected to support New Zealand’s move towards having a smoke-free and greener future.
