The Bangladesh Electronic Nicotine Delivery System Traders Association (BENDSTA) has called for sensible regulation for e-cigarettes and other tobacco harm reduction products.

At a press conference today (October 22), the association raised concerns about proposed changes to the Use (Control) of Tobacco and Tobacco Products Act 2005 (amended in 2013).

These amendments include a potential ban on products like e-cigarettes, which the association says could negatively impact public health and the industry.

The draft proposal, which was submitted for public comment in 2022, was sent back to cabinet last year due to a lack of stakeholder input and the need for further review.

Representing major vape importers in Bangladesh, BENDSTA sharply criticized the rushed policy-making process and highlighted the critical need for dialogue among stakeholders to ensure that regulations align with public health goals and government revenue targets.

BENDSTA President Schumann Zaman said: “Electronic cigarettes and vapes should not be placed in the same category as traditional cigarettes. These products do not contain tar, the most harmful substance created by burning cigarettes, making them significantly less harmful.

Addressing the misconceptions surrounding vaping, he said: “There is a growing body of international evidence supporting vaping as a safer alternative to smoking.

“The UK Health Safety Agency has certified that vaping is 95% less harmful than smoking, and countries including the UK, US, Canada, New Zealand and Sweden are encouraging its use in the framework of their public health policies.”

Zaman added: “Instead of banning e-cigarettes, we should focus on sensible regulations that can help reduce traditional smoking and support the government’s health objectives. »

Rezwan Ahmed, Secretary General of BENDSTA, also echoed the need for dialogue and informed decision-making to shape the future of vaping in Bangladesh.