Vietnam's Ministry of Health is taking firm steps to curb the abuse of new-generation tobacco products. Through proposed amendments to the Law on Prevention and Control of Tobacco Harms, the government plans to implement a comprehensive ban on the production, distribution, and use of modern nicotine products, including nicotine pouches or lozenges that are increasingly prevalent in the market.
Deputy Minister of Health, Professor Tran Van Thuan, stated that this step is crucial given that tobacco remains one of the leading causes of chronic diseases and premature death in Vietnam. With over 100,000 deaths linked to tobacco each year, the government is determined to build a stronger legal shield to protect the younger generation from exposure to addictive substances disguised in modern packaging.
Health experts highlight that nicotine lozenge products are often misleadingly marketed as "cleaner" or "tobacco-free" alternatives. In fact, the nicotine contained within still triggers serious dependency. The colorful packaging design with fruit flavors and cooling sensations is believed to be deliberately crafted to appeal to adolescents who have never smoked before, thereby creating a new cohort of addicts.
Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) warns that the global nicotine industry is evolving much faster than the pace of regulation. This aggressive market trend, which often utilizes social media to link products with active lifestyles, has fueled a significant surge in global consumption. This creates an urgent legal loophole that must be closed immediately through a comprehensive regulatory framework.
In addition to banning new nicotine products, the proposed draft also includes stricter rules for the sale of conventional tobacco. These policies include banning online sales, restricting product displays in retail stores, and mandating age verification via electronic ID (VNeID). The Vietnamese government hopes these proactive measures will close the legal loopholes previously exploited by the industry to target children and teenagers.
