THE Consumer Choice Centre (CCC) acknowledges the introduction of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852) aimed at regulating vape products and safeguarding consumer safety.
However, its country associate for Malaysia Tarmizi Anuwar has raised concerns over whether the regulations will effectively reduce smoking prevalence and warned of potential unintended consequences for consumer choice and market competition.
“While consumer safety is paramount, certain regulations such as the retail display ban may inadvertently drive consumers towards unregulated markets, thus limiting access to safer alternatives,” Tarmizi pointed out.
He further emphasised that retail displays play a crucial role in helping consumers make informed decisions by fostering transparency and competition.
“Banning retail displays will not only hinder consumer awareness of vaping as a less harmful alternative to smoking but could also push consumers toward more dangerous, unregulated products,” asserted Tarmizi.
“The government should withdraw the retail display ban to ensure that consumers can make safer, more informed choices.”
The CCC further urged the government to strike a balance between public health protection and consumer empowerment.
In this regard, Tarmizi encouraged policymakers to withdraw the retail display ban and focus on evidence-based regulations that will meaningfully reduce smoking rates while promoting safer alternatives and harm reduction products like vaping. – Oct 15, 2024
