Brazil's Public Opinion on E-cigarette Ban: 58% against

According to Brazilian media Brasil247, the Brazilian National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) analyzed 14,000 "e-cigarette public consultations" social opinions, of which 58% of participants believe that maintaining the e-cigarette ban policy has had a negative impact on Brazil; while 37% of people support continuing to maintain the e-cigarette ban.

During the 60-day public consultation period, there was significant disagreement among the general public on this issue, with differing opinions from health professionals, politicians, organizations, and even within the tobacco industry itself. A total of 88 submissions opposing the ban came from overseas, including users from countries such as Canada, the United States, and Portugal where the sale of e-cigarettes is allowed.

This form of social engagement is aimed at assisting Anvisa in making decisions regarding e-cigarette policies. According to Anvisa's Joint Resolution 46/2009, Brazil prohibits the importation, sale, and advertising of all types of e-cigarettes.

According to a survey conducted by the Ipec Institute, approximately 2.9 million adults in Brazil admit to having used e-cigarettes. This marks a 600% increase in users over the past six years since the first survey in 2018. Additionally, nearly 6.3 million former tobacco smokers have tried e-cigarettes. However, due to existing bans, almost all smokers are consuming products that lack ingredient control and transparency. The Ipec survey also revealed that 87% of respondents claim to have knowledge of e-cigarettes.

The rapid growth of e-cigarette consumption in Brazil is increasing pressure on authorities to develop more effective public policies, whether through regulating devices and establishing strict regulations, or increasing enforcement efforts as consumption grows. According to data from the Federal Revenue Service, the amount of smuggled e-cigarettes seized increased from 23,000 in 2019 to over 1.1 million by 2023.

Although the majority of participants expressed their desire for e-cigarettes to be regulated, the topic still faces opposition in the medical community. The Brazilian Medical Association (CFM) has labeled e-cigarettes as a "gateway" to smoking and has defended maintaining its ban. Medical organizations are calling on the federal government and Congress to uphold laws prohibiting e-cigarettes; increase enforcement and control mechanisms; and conduct public awareness campaigns on the potential risks of e-cigarette use.

Since 2003, e-cigarette products have undergone many changes, including disposable products, rechargeable pods containing nicotine e-liquid, and heated tobacco products.