Guardian: Australian Public Concern Over Widespread Illegal Sale of E-cigarettes

Regulations by 2FIRSTS.ai
Feb.20.2024
Guardian: Australian Public Concern Over Widespread Illegal Sale of E-cigarettes
Recent study published in BMJ Open shows concern over widespread illegal e-cigarette sales in Australia, prompting calls for bans.

Recently, according to The Guardian, a new study has shown that there is widespread concern among Australian citizens about the illegal sale of e-cigarettes, with many people supporting the implementation of a ban.

 

This study was published in the international medical journal BMJ Open in February 2023. Researchers consulted 139 Australians aged 14 to 39 in Sydney and Melbourne on e-cigarette regulations, conducting interviews in 16 focus groups.

 

A study found that less than half of the participants were aware of the process of obtaining nicotine e-cigarette products through a prescription. When asked about how to reduce the use of e-cigarettes, everyone suggested measures such as standardized packaging, health warnings, banning flavors, and increasing smoke-free areas.

 

The majority of participants, especially those who have never tried e-cigarettes, also recommended regulations that would decrease the supply of e-cigarettes, similar to a complete ban.

 

One of the main authors of the study, Associate Professor Michelle Jongenelis from the University of Melbourne, stated that the interviews for these focus groups were conducted in March 2023, before the Australian federal government announced the implementation of comprehensive e-cigarette reforms.

 

However, many suggestions from various groups align with the reforms later announced by the government.

 

Starting from January 1, 2024, the import of all disposable e-cigarettes has been banned, with a few exceptions. Other import reforms will be implemented in March. However, Romani Li said that it is not until e-cigarette stores are actually closed that people will realize that the sale of e-cigarettes is being regulated.

 

At the same time, she asserted that these findings suggest that the advertising campaigns supported by the e-cigarette industry calling on the government to abandon this reform are purely 'propaganda' and do not reflect the true sentiments of the public. She stated that education on the prescription e-cigarette model will be crucial.

 

Terry Slevin, CEO of the Australian Public Health Association and associate professor, stated that the feedback he has heard from the community aligns with the research findings of Dr. Rongen Lee.

 

People say that openly selling e-cigarettes on street corners is simply crazy, and this widespread availability of nicotine addiction is particularly concerning, especially since we know nothing about the long-term effects of inhaling these products and their associated chemicals.

 

We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.

Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn


Notice

1.  This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.

2.  The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

3.  This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.

4.  Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.

 

Copyright

 

This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.

For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com

 

AI Assistance Disclaimer

 

This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.

We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com

2Firsts Launches High-Impact, Cost-Efficient PMTA Plans for NGPs
2Firsts Launches High-Impact, Cost-Efficient PMTA Plans for NGPs
Jun.03
Swedish Study: Nicotine Pouches Boost Smoking Cessation Rates Among Women by 200%
Swedish Study: Nicotine Pouches Boost Smoking Cessation Rates Among Women by 200%
A recent Swedish study reveals that nicotine pouches are the most effective tool for women to quit smoking, outperforming e-cigarettes and nicotine gum. Since their introduction in 2016, the smoking rate among Swedish women has dropped by 49%, helping the country move closer to becoming the world’s first “smoke-free nation.”
Jun.26 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Wisconsin Vape Distributor Sues State Over New Fines for Unauthorized Products
Wisconsin Vape Distributor Sues State Over New Fines for Unauthorized Products
Wisconsin vape distributors are suing the state over a new law fining sales of FDA-unauthorized products, effective July 1, with $1,000 daily penalties for non-listed items from September. They argue it’s unconstitutional and threatens the industry. Similar laws exist in 14 states, though Iowa’s was halted. Experts urge balancing vaping’s quit-smoking potential with youth prevention as U.S. teen vaping rates decline.
Jul.11 by 2FIRSTS.ai
2Firsts | Dialogue Over Dogma: GFN Co-founder Paddy Costall Lauds Diversity of Voices at 2025 Event
2Firsts | Dialogue Over Dogma: GFN Co-founder Paddy Costall Lauds Diversity of Voices at 2025 Event
In a 2Firsts interview, GFN co-founder Paddy Costall highlighted that entrenched hostility toward industry voices has hindered progress in harm reduction. He urged a return to inclusive dialogue and science-driven strategies to improve public health.
Jun.23
Philip Morris International: When High Valuation Meets Flawed Performance — A 2Firsts Reader Submission
Philip Morris International: When High Valuation Meets Flawed Performance — A 2Firsts Reader Submission
After PMI released its Q2 2025 earnings, a 2Firsts reader submitted an in-depth analysis unpacking key concerns behind the headline numbers. While earnings beat expectations, slowing organic revenue growth, challenges in combustibles and ZYN, and a low margin for error under high valuation have triggered market unease. The next few quarters may prove pivotal for PMI’s growth narrative.
Jul.24
2Firsts Observes | Japan’s E-Cigarette Sales Ban Doesn’t Affect Promotion, Ploom X Advanced Appears in Dubai Airport Ad Space
2Firsts Observes | Japan’s E-Cigarette Sales Ban Doesn’t Affect Promotion, Ploom X Advanced Appears in Dubai Airport Ad Space
Ploom X Advanced is set to exit the Japanese market, but two 2Firsts observers spotted its ongoing advertisements at Dubai Airport. Priced at $49, the product’s continued promotion highlights its ongoing expansion in international markets.
Jun.23 by 2FIRSTS.ai