A Nationwide Issue Revealed
A recent investigative sweep led by the Brazilian Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Public Security has exposed a startling number of unauthorized e-cigarette product listings online. Despite a firm ban by Anvisa, Brazil’s National Health Surveillance Agency, approximately 870 online sources have been identified, blatantly skirting the law.
Anvisa’s Stance on E-cigarettes
Since 2009, Anvisa has maintained a stringent prohibition on the sale, manufacture, importation, transportation, storage, and advertisement of e-cigarette products in Brazil. In April, this resolution was emphatically reaffirmed by all five directors of the agency. Yet, the digital and physical marketplaces tell a different tale.
Scope of the Investigation
The special report titled “Illegal Tobacco Products and E-cigarette Devices (DEF) Sales Online” delves into the pervasive issue across various platforms:
- 305 Instagram accounts were found promoting these banned items.
- Physical inspections across 945 cities in five states unveiled 298 stores using iFood services to distribute tobacco products and e-cigarettes, demonstrating a crafty use of digital avenues to bypass regulatory oversight.
A Closer Look at Consumer Habits
The investigation also shed light on tobacco consumption in Brazil, revealing that around 51 million people (33.5% of the population aged between 12 and 65) have tried smoking, with 20.8 million having smoked in the month preceding the survey.
Regional Insights
The report highlights a concerning trend in the southeastern and southern regions of Brazil, where the majority of iFood delivery services for tobacco products are located. Major cities, in particular, have shown higher numbers of establishments involved in these sales, often employing clever strategies such as using specific keywords to evade detection.
Navigating the Regulation Maze
In Brazil, selling any tobacco product or e-cigarette device online is strictly prohibited, as is advertising these products through images, product names, or brands. However, the investigation has revealed widespread non-compliance across social media, sales websites, and even food delivery apps.
Final Thoughts: A Call to Awareness
As we navigate the murky waters of online sales and regulatory enforcement, it’s crucial to stay informed and vigilant. The resilience of illegal markets highlights the need for continuous monitoring and updated enforcement strategies. Let’s keep the conversation going—follow our blog for more insights and updates on vaping trends and regulations. Together, we can stay one step ahead in ensuring public health and safety.
