More Investigations in Taiwan After Vaping Ban: 41 Cases Involve People Under 20

Today’s news, on April 27, according to the Taipei Times, following the amendment of the Tobacco Hazard Prevention Act to ban electronic cigarettes and tighten restrictions on heated tobacco products, Taiwan Province conducts over 2,000 investigations related to electronic cigarettes each month.  

The Health Promotion Administration (HPA) stated that fines totaling NT$280,000 (US$9,117) have been imposed on 18 cases. 

HPA data shows that out of 2,173 cases, approximately 67% were suspected of selling electronic cigarettes, 477 involved electronic cigarette advertisements, 40 involved displaying electronic cigarettes, and 42 involved the use of electronic cigarettes or HTPs.

“Notably, among the 42 cases of suspected illegal use, 41 involved individuals under the age of 20,” said Chen Miaoxin, Director of the HPA's Tobacco Control Division.

These amendments were implemented last month, raising the legal age for purchasing cigarettes to 20, increasing the required size of health warnings on cigarette packages, and expanding smoke-free areas in public places.