German Cancer Research Center Experts Call for Strict Ban on E-cigarette Ads on Social Media

Jun.03.2024

German cancer researchers call for stricter e-cigarette ad bans on social media to protect youth health. The current ban is inadequate.

According to SWR on May 31, experts from the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) are calling for stricter regulations on e-cigarette advertising online to protect the health of young people.

Since 2022, Germany has banned tobacco advertising in public areas such as posters, bus stops, and movies suitable for teenagers. As of the beginning of this year (2024), e-cigarette advertising, including online, has also been added to the ban. However, experts suggest that there is a legal "gray area" when it comes to e-cigarette advertising on social platforms, especially on platforms like TikTok or Instagram.

Expert Katrin Schaller from the research center stated that despite some restrictions on e-cigarette advertising currently being in place, there are still some loopholes. For example, e-cigarette ads can still be found at point of sale locations such as newsstands, gas stations, and some grocery stores. Additionally, while advertising e-cigarettes online has been prohibited, it is still seen as potentially legal on social media platforms.

However, Jan Mücke of the German Federal Tobacco Industry New Product Association (BVTE) expressed doubt about this. He emphasized that the industry's advertising methods are already restricted, and e-cigarette advertisements have not been allowed on posters since the beginning of the year. Mücke believes that simply imposing further advertising bans will not further reduce Germany's smoking rate, and a more effective approach would be for the government to enforce existing regulations more effectively.

References:

[1] Vapes im Visier: Heidelberger Krebsforscher für Werbeverbot von Einweg-Vapes und E-Zigaretten

Also Read:

[1] Germany's Federal Drug Commissioner to Crack Down on Smoking

[2] Decrease in Smoking Rates Among German Youth: Report

[3] German Ministry for Environment Urges Handling of Disposables

[4] Crackdown on Counterfeit Goods and Unauthorized E-Cigarettes in Flea Market in Germany

[5] Germany Uncovers Massive E-cigarette Smuggling Operation with over 400,000 Units

[6] German Customs Seizes Illegal E-Cigs and Tobacco Products Worth over 71,000 Euros

[7] Customs Seize Massive Unreported E-cigarette and E-liquid Shipment in Germany

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