BAT Mexico Opposes E-Cigarette Ban, Advocates for Science-Based Regulation

Dec.05.2024
BAT Mexico Opposes E-Cigarette Ban, Advocates for Science-Based Regulation
BAT Mexico expresses concern over the Mexican Congress's decision to approve a constitutional ban on e-cigarettes, warning of potential negative impacts on public health, the economy, and the legal framework, and calls for appropriate regulation based on scientific evidence instead of a ban.

According to La Querella Digital's report on December 4th, British American Tobacco Mexico (BAT México) has expressed concerns over the Mexican Chamber of Deputies' approval of a constitutional ban on e-cigarettes.

 

BAT Mexico warns that this action may have negative impacts on public health, the economy, and the law.

 

The company pointed out that the proposal ignores scientific evidence and international experience, which shows that e-cigarettes are up to 95% less harmful compared to traditional cigarettes. Countries such as England, New Zealand, and Sweden have already incorporated e-cigarettes into their public policies in response to smoking issues and have made significant progress.

 

BAT Mexico warned that this ban could lead to an increase in tax evasion, the expansion of the black market, an increase in the risk of minors accessing unregulated products, and limited access for adults to low-risk alternative products. According to the company, similar bans implemented in Mexico have already exacerbated illegal trade.

 

The company reaffirmed its commitment to promoting health and the environment through its global strategy "A Better Tomorrow," with the goal of reducing the impact of smoking through its Vuse e-cigarette product line, which has been legally sold in Mexico since 2019.

 

BAT Mexico is urging senators to vote based on scientific evidence rather than being influenced by ideological biases, and to prioritize appropriate regulatory frameworks. They emphasize that regulation, rather than prohibition, is the most effective way to protect public health and responsibly curb smoking.

 

"The ban has proven to be an ineffective and costly solution. Only through data-driven regulation can we move towards a smoke-free Mexico," the company emphasized.

 

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