Chinese Authorities to Protect Minors from E-cigarettes
Chinese authorities, including the Ministry of Public Security, China Tobacco, State Administration for Market Regulation, and Ministry of Education, have jointly launched a campaign to crack down on the selling of electronic cigarettes to minors and other related activities. Before the end of April, authorities will implement a series of tough measures.
Authorities will clear out e-cigarette sales outlets and vending machines in the vicinity of schools, cancel unlicensed business sites and delete online information deemed harmful to minors.
Spot checks will be carried out at some key places and the frequent destinations of minors such as bars and amusement parks. Destinations need to set up appropriate warning signs and ensure proper identity checks are in place before authorities visit.
In addition, the program requires that publicity efforts will be stepped up to enhance the awareness against e-cigarettes among juveniles and build a protective social network.
As early as October 2020, the newly revised Law on the Protection of Minors clearly stipulated that “it is forbidden to sell electronic cigarettes to minors”. The Management of Electronic Cigarettes (Draft for Soliciting Public Opinions) issued in December last year reiterated the new restrictions.
SEE ALSO: China Amends Tobacco Monopoly Law to Include E-Cigarettes
Affected by this campaign, share prices of e-cigarette companies or related products, including Smoore, China Boton Group, BYD Electronics, and China Tobacco, fell 10%, 9%, 6%, and 3% respectively.
