German Cancer Research Center Experts Call for Strict Ban on E-cigarette Ads on Social Media

Jun.03.2024

German cancer researchers call for stricter e-cigarette ad bans on social media to protect youth health. The current ban is inadequate.

According to SWR on May 31, experts from the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) are calling for stricter regulations on e-cigarette advertising online to protect the health of young people.

Since 2022, Germany has banned tobacco advertising in public areas such as posters, bus stops, and movies suitable for teenagers. As of the beginning of this year (2024), e-cigarette advertising, including online, has also been added to the ban. However, experts suggest that there is a legal "gray area" when it comes to e-cigarette advertising on social platforms, especially on platforms like TikTok or Instagram.

Expert Katrin Schaller from the research center stated that despite some restrictions on e-cigarette advertising currently being in place, there are still some loopholes. For example, e-cigarette ads can still be found at point of sale locations such as newsstands, gas stations, and some grocery stores. Additionally, while advertising e-cigarettes online has been prohibited, it is still seen as potentially legal on social media platforms.

However, Jan Mücke of the German Federal Tobacco Industry New Product Association (BVTE) expressed doubt about this. He emphasized that the industry's advertising methods are already restricted, and e-cigarette advertisements have not been allowed on posters since the beginning of the year. Mücke believes that simply imposing further advertising bans will not further reduce Germany's smoking rate, and a more effective approach would be for the government to enforce existing regulations more effectively.

References:

[1] Vapes im Visier: Heidelberger Krebsforscher für Werbeverbot von Einweg-Vapes und E-Zigaretten

Also Read:

[1] Germany's Federal Drug Commissioner to Crack Down on Smoking

[2] Decrease in Smoking Rates Among German Youth: Report

[3] German Ministry for Environment Urges Handling of Disposables

[4] Crackdown on Counterfeit Goods and Unauthorized E-Cigarettes in Flea Market in Germany

[5] Germany Uncovers Massive E-cigarette Smuggling Operation with over 400,000 Units

[6] German Customs Seizes Illegal E-Cigs and Tobacco Products Worth over 71,000 Euros

[7] Customs Seize Massive Unreported E-cigarette and E-liquid Shipment in Germany

We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.

Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn

Notice

1. This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.

2. The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

3. This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.

4. Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.

Copyright

This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.

For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com

AI Assistance Disclaimer

This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.

We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com

2Firsts Interview with IBVTA: UK Vape Tax May Weaken Harm Reduction Efforts

As the UK prepares to introduce its first-ever vape tax in 2026, questions are growing about how the measure will reshape the country’s harm reduction landscape. IBVTA tells 2Firsts that while it was not in favour of the new duty, it accepts that it is being implemented and is working with regulators to ensure a smooth rollout — warning, however, that higher costs could slow smokers’ transition to safer alternatives.

Oct.07

BAT accused of “utter hypocrisy” over efforts to dilute Zambia’s tobacco bill

The Guardian reports that British American Tobacco urged Zambian ministers to drop or delay ad and sponsorship bans and to soften a draft tobacco bill by shrinking health warnings, easing flavour restrictions and lowering penalties. Critics said the stance is hypocritical given similar rules apply in the UK.

Nov.13

Malaysia CID Endorses Nationwide Vape Ban Amid Rising Drug-Laced Vape Cases

Malaysia’s Federal Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has voiced support for a nationwide ban on vaping, particularly targeting drug-laced vape devices, to address rising abuse cases.

Oct.23 by 2FIRSTS.ai

Black Friday Meets Thanksgiving: Multiple E-Cigarette Brands Launch Discounts and Giveaways Across North America and Europe

As Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Thanksgiving shopping season arrive, e-cigarette brands such as OXVA and VAPORESSO, together with online retail platforms, have launched concentrated discount and giveaway campaigns running from mid-November to early December. Promotions include tiered reductions, sitewide discounts, bundle deals and interactive prize draws, covering North America, the UK and parts of the EU market.