Ukraine admits ban on flavored e-cigarettes is ineffective

Despite the ban on the sale of flavored electronic cigarettes in Ukraine, manufacturers are finding ways to circumvent the restrictions. This was announced by Taras Klymenko, head of the public organization "European Choice of Ukraine", during a press conference.

During the press conference, it was noted that 53.7% of those surveyed purchase individual ingredients and independently mix flavored liquids from them, which they then pour into electronic cigarette cartridges.

Klymenko noted that in such a case it is impossible to control the concentration of harmful or even prohibited substances. Therefore, it is important to conduct explanatory work among consumers and inform them about the potential risks of such products.

At the same time, the survey showed that the majority of Ukrainians (56.6%) are aware of the ban on flavored electronic cigarettes in Ukraine.

At the same time, 64% of respondents continue to use them, despite legal restrictions. Only 0.2% of consumers have stopped using banned e-cigarettes, and 0.1% have given up smoking altogether.

In addition, 76% of respondents agree that the ban on some tobacco and nicotine products leads consumers to seek out prohibited products in other countries or on the illegal market.

At the same time, 78.5% of respondents believe that instead of introducing bans, the government should pay more attention to informing current smokers about the benefits of quitting tobacco, as well as supporting those who do not plan to quit in switching to less harmful alternatives.

"Experience with electronic cigarettes has proven that bans are not always effective – we also need to control circulation and inform both young people and adults," Klymenko noted.

• From July 11, 2024, a ban on advertising electronic smoking devices, as well as the sale of regular and electronic cigarettes and liquids for them with aromatic and flavoring additives, came into force in Ukraine.