Regulating Vape Products: MRECA's Response

The Malaysia Retail Electronic Cigarette Association (MRECA) has recently welcomed the government's move to regulate vape products. In particular, MRECA sees the potential exemption of nicotine for vape products from the Poisons Act as a positive move. Let's take a closer look at MRECA's response and their call for involvement in discussions on the regulatory framework for vape products.

Regulations for the Vape Industry

MRECA president Datuk Adzwan Ab Manas said the move to regulate vape products would introduce much-needed regulations for the industry. While MRECA supports the government's move, Adzwan believes that subjecting vape products containing nicotine to the Poisons Act does not work for the products. Adzwan cites examples of developed countries such as the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Canada, where e-liquids with nicotine are not subject to the Poisons Act. Instead, these countries have proper regulatory frameworks to regulate the products.

Exempting Nicotine for Vape Products

Adzwan stated that the government is taking the right steps to exempt nicotine for vape products from the Poisons Act. Vape liquids containing nicotine could be regulated appropriately with the exemption. However, this requires amendments to existing laws such as the Control of Tobacco Product Regulations 2004. With these amendments in place, Adzwan believes that controls will be put in place instead of allowing the products to remain unregulated.

Engaging Industry Players

Since the Budget 2023 announcement, the government has not engaged industry players for consultations. Adzwan called for the government to involve the industry in discussions on the regulatory framework for vape products. Adzwan believes that the news about the potential exemption on nicotine for vape liquid should be discussed with industry players instead of being communicated to non-governmental health organizations (NGOs).

Generational Endgame (GEG) Proposal

MRECA believes that the Generational Endgame (GEG) proposal requires further in-depth studies and consultations with all stakeholders, especially the industry players. The impact of the GEG proposal needs to be assessed further before any decision is made.

Conclusion

MRECA's response to the government's move to regulate vape products shows their support for proper regulations for the industry. While MRECA welcomes the potential exemption of nicotine for vape products from the Poisons Act, Adzwan calls for the involvement of industry players in discussions on the regulatory framework for vape products. With proper regulations in place, the industry can grow and thrive, and consumers can have access to safer products.