The coalition government in New Zealand is implementing measures to combat youth vaping, including banning single-use vapes, increasing fines for sel
The coalition government in New Zealand is implementing measures to combat youth vaping, including banning single-use vapes, increasing fines for selling vapes to minors, and enhancing enforcement systems. Associate Health Minister Casey Costello announced the changes, aiming to have them in place by the end of the year. While reusable vapes will remain available, disposable vapes will be banned due to their accessibility and popularity among teenagers. Fines for selling vapes to minors will increase significantly, and licensing and compliance regimes will be reviewed for stronger enforcement. The government is committed to reducing smoking rates and achieving a Smokefree goal by 2025. Some regulations, such as banning vapes with cartoon imagery, will proceed as planned, while others will be delayed to ensure sufficient availability of suitable vaping products for smoking cessation.