On April 4th, according to a report by the New Zealand Herald, Palauan President Surangel Whipps Jr signed a bill on March 29th that completely bans the import, promotion, sale, and use of e-cigarettes, effectively classifying them as illegal products. Palau, composed of 340 small islands, is a Pacific nation located south of the Philippines in the Micronesia region. With a population of approximately 21,000, the country's main economic sources are tourism and fishing.
The authorities hope that the new law will "protect public health".
The bill (RPPL 11-27) was introduced in the Palau National Congress in July 2022. It expands the scope of the Tobacco Control Act to include e-cigarettes and will take effect 60 days after formal signing.
This means that starting from May 29th, if businesses or individuals are found carrying electronic cigarette products, they will face prosecution.
Individuals found breaking the law will face a fine of $1000 (equivalent to approximately 6882 Chinese yuan). Enterprises or individuals involved in importing, distributing, or selling the product will face a fine of $20,000 (equivalent to approximately 137,000 Chinese yuan).
Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. | Image source: Palau Government
President Wipus stated, "This bill will protect public health, especially our youth, from the harmful effects of electronic cigarettes.
Valerie Trierweiler, who is president of the Tobacco Alliance, called for the new law to be implemented through the entire government and society. Trierweiler is also the wife of the president.
Valerie stated, "These products are specifically designed to target young people. If we don't take action, we will be raising an entire generation that has been harmed by these dangerous products.
The prohibition of cigarettes has sparked controversy.
However, some critics argue that if the government's objective is to protect public health, it should not solely focus on banning e-cigarettes.
Why not ban cigarette products as well if electronic cigarettes are being prohibited? If the ban is intended for the health and well-being of society, I believe cigarettes contain more harmful chemicals and cause greater damage," commented a Facebook user.
A student who witnessed the signing ceremony believes this is a good law. While they have not personally used the product in question, they are aware of others who have.
According to statistics from the Palau Ministry of Health and Human Services, there has been a significant increase in the use of electronic cigarettes among students since 2019, with 7% of students having tried them. The youngest age of a user recorded was 13 years old.
Further reading:
Australia may enforce a complete ban on the importation of e-cigarettes.
References:
Palau has prohibited the import, advertising, sale, and usage of vapes and e-cigarettes.
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