In a decision that has sparked debate and concern, New Zealand announced on Tuesday that it will repeal a groundbreaking law that banned tobacco sales for future generations. The move comes despite warnings from researchers and campaigners about the potential risks and consequences.
Originally scheduled to be enforced in July, the legislation aimed to introduce severe anti-tobacco actions, such as prohibiting sales to people born on or after January 1, 2009, lowering the nicotine levels in tobacco products, and drastically cutting down the quantity of tobacco retail outlets.
The new coalition government, elected in October, has confirmed the repeal as a matter of urgency. This decision allows them to scrap the law without seeking public comment, aligning with their previous plans.
Associate Health Minister Casey Costello underscored the government’s commitment to reducing smoking rates, choosing an innovative regulatory tactic to discourage smoking and mitigate its negative impacts. Costello declared, “I’m about to present a comprehensive set of measures to the cabinet designed to enhance support for those wishing to quit smoking.” Furthermore, to stop young people from starting to vape, the government intends to implement more stringent regulations on vaping.
The decision to repeal has drawn considerable backlash, with detractors worried about its repercussions on New Zealand’s public health achievements. Critics contend that the move might adversely impact Maori and Pasifika populations, who experience elevated levels of smoking.
Janet Hoek, an academic at Otago University, voiced her opposition by noting that overturning the law contradicts substantial research findings and overlooks strategies endorsed by Maori leadership. As a co-leader of an organization dedicated to smoking reduction, Hoek emphasized, “Extensive clinical trials and simulation research indicate that the law would have swiftly boosted the quitting rates among existing smokers and raised barriers for youth initiation into smoking.”
As New Zealand progresses with the repeal, the decision will continue to spark discussions about the best approaches to reducing smoking rates and protecting public health. The government’s alternative regulatory measures and tightened regulations on vaping will be closely monitored to assess their effectiveness in achieving these goals.
