E-cigarettes in Australia only in pharmacies
In Australia, E-Cigarettes can only be sold from now on in pharmacies, in plain packaging and without flavorings. The strict new rules announced by the government last year came into effect. Pharmacists are required to inform their customers about health risks before selling vapes. Minors under 18 years old need a prescription.
"We take these reforms seriously because they are of crucial importance for the health of young Australians," said Health Minister Mark Butler. Electronic cigarettes are a serious threat to public health.
"They are a tool of the tobacco industry, designed to attract a new generation to nicotine addiction." At the same time, the government appointed a commissioner to combat illegally imported E-Cigarettes and tobacco products.
Last year, Butler announced: "No more gum-like aromas, no pink bunny ears or E-Cigarettes disguised as markers, so children can hide them in their pencil cases." Only simple packaging without exotic flavors is allowed.
E-Cigarettes are also controversial in Germany - mainly due to their poor environmental balance. Since January 1, there has been a partial advertising ban, for example on outdoor advertising and the internet. It has been forbidden to sell vapes to children and minors under 18 years old since 2016. Belgium is the first country in Europe to introduce a general sales ban: From January 1, 2025, disposable E-Cigarettes will disappear from store shelves.
In Germany, disposable E-Cigarettes are also controversial - mainly due to their poor environmental balance. Since January 1, there has been a partial advertising ban, for example on outdoor advertising and the internet. It has been forbidden to sell vapes to children and minors under 18 years old since 2016. Belgium is the first country in Europe to introduce a general sales ban: From January 1, 2025, disposable E-Cigarettes will no longer be available for sale.
The new regulations in Australia aim to curb nicotine addiction among the younger generation, as Health Minister Mark Butler stated. This is why E-cigarettes can now only be purchased from pharmacies in Australia. Furthermore, New Zealand has shown interest in following Australia's lead by considering similar restrictions on E-cigarette sales.
