The Portuguese government is reportedly considering a new bill aimed at regulating the use of e-cigarettes and other tobacco products, according to Vaporvoice. This new bill will encompass the latest delegated regulation of the European Union Tobacco Products Directive, which includes provisions for heated tobacco products and e-cigarettes.
The bill, known as Draft Bill No. 88/XV, aims to expand the scope of smoke-free areas by placing restrictions on the use of e-cigarette products. This would effectively prohibit the use of e-cigarettes on outdoor premises such as bar and restaurant terraces. Additionally, it seeks to limit the sale of e-cigarette products by implementing a ban on online sales.
Alberto Gómez Hernández, Community Manager of the World E-cigarette Alliance, has expressed concern over the new regulations, viewing them as a step backwards in promoting alternative nicotine products through an open and evidence-based approach. He asserts that Portugal should follow the successes of countries like the UK and Sweden, which have encouraged smokers to switch to safer nicotine products, rather than making it harder for smokers to access these products. Furthermore, he highlights that banning the online sale of e-cigarette products could potentially limit options for those who are unable to find nearby alternatives, forcing them to continue smoking.
