Rising Concerns: Youth E-cigarette Use in Moldova Sparks Debate

Regulations by 2FIRSTS.ai
Jul.03.2024
Rising Concerns: Youth E-cigarette Use in Moldova Sparks Debate
A recent study in Moldova revealed a concerning trend of youth e-cigarette use, prompting calls for increased taxation.

According to a report from Locals MD on July 2nd, a recent study has revealed a significant prevalence of e-cigarette use among teenagers in the Republic of Moldova. The study, conducted by the Moldovan Pediatric Association in 2023, found that 36% of the 530 teenagers surveyed, aged 10 to 16, reported using disposable e-cigarettes or regular e-cigarettes.


Respiratory disease expert Olimpia German stated that these products have attracted a large number of young people due to their low prices, sweet aroma, and convenience of online shopping.


She pointed out that in 2021, amendments to the Tobacco Control Act regarding disposable e-cigarettes were passed, which regulated nicotine content, health warning labels, excise tax stamps, and online commerce.


Although the tobacco control law is very strict, concerns have been raised about the enforcement of regulations. The Moldovan government has taken the first step in combating the epidemic of disposable e-cigarettes by proposing a 15% increase in consumption tax on these products, which is a step in the right direction. However, the consumption tax should be increased to 50% to ensure that minors cannot access this harmful product. The price of e-cigarettes should start at 500 lei (28.09 USD) to keep them out of reach of young people.


The proposal to increase the e-cigarette excise tax has been included in the 2025 fiscal policy and requires approval from the government and parliament.


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