Taiwan Ministry of Health Reported That Vaping Rates Have Doubled in Colleges 

While data show that vaping rates doubled between 2018 and 2020, the increased vaping rates were especially prominent among female students. However the survey also indicated that the latter are now more likely to vape than smoke regular cigarettes, and given the relative safety of the products, many anti-smoking experts would consider this positive.

Meanwhile last month, the Executive Yuan passed amendments to the Tobacco Hazards Prevention Act (菸害防制法) that propose banning vapes and other flavoured products. The measure would also raise the local tobacco age limit from 18 to 20, and extend an existing smoking ban to include indoor and outdoor spaces at universities, preschools, daycare and live-in childcare centers.

The national vape ban

Meanwhile, following up on a measure passed in 2021, the Taipei City Government has enforced the imminent national ban, to became the nation’s first local government to set a ban on e-cigarettes.

The new ordinance bans the importation, sale, manufacture, display or advertising of vaping and heated tobacco products and their components. However individuals in possession of special government permits will be exempted. Violators may face fines of between NT$10,000 (US$354) and NT$100,000 and unless they rectify their offence within the set time period, they may face a second fine and suspension order.

The legislation also sets in place an age limit, prohibiting people who are under the age of 18, from using e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. Any minors caught using the products will be forced to attend smoking cessation classes, or pay fines of between NT$2,000 and NT$10,000, and vaping and using heated tobacco products is to be banned in a 50m zone around schools. Businesses caught in violation of the rules will be paying similar fines.

Read Further: Taipei Times

E-Cigarette Use in Taiwan Has Tripled Since 2018