KUALA LUMPUR – Vape sellers are feeling the immediate impact of the new regulations as the enforcement of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852) took effect on October 1.
The act, which includes a ban on vape products resembling toys, aims to protect minors from early exposure to smoking, but it also brings challenges to businesses.
Firdaus, 26, a staff member of a vape store, supports the move to protect younger customers but acknowledged the difficulties sellers face in distinguishing between minors and legal-age buyers.
“It’s definitely a good thing for minors because sometimes they come in, and we can’t really tell if they’re over 18. Nowadays, everyone looks older,” he shared.
However, Firdaus admits that the new rules are likely to affect his business, especially with the prohibition of online sales and advertising.
“While most of our sales are in-store, we do rely on online advertising, and that’s where it might hit us.
“Not being able to advertise or promote online means fewer customers can find us.” Firdaus added.
For Ku Aril, 29, another staffer of a vape store, the new law is both a necessary step and a business adjustment.
“Right now, these products are easily accessible, even in convenience stores. But in an official store, we’re strict. We make sure that our customers are old enough before they even come into the store.”
Ku Aril believes that the shift towards selling only in physical stores could benefit responsible sellers.
“I think it’s better to sell these products face-to-face instead of online. That way, we can filter who’s buying and teach them how to use the products properly.
“The business is still stable as of now, but we’ll see how it goes with these new restrictions,” he explained.
Act 852 also outlines a phased enforcement approach for other key aspects, giving the industry and the public time to adapt to the new law.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad said these include the registration of smoking products, which will be made mandatory beginning April 1, 2025.
Similarly, packaging and labelling regulations will be enforced on a product-by-product basis by October 1, 2025.
Regulations on display of smoking products at the point of sale, will also be enforced by April 1, 2025.
In the meantime, until these dates, Health Ministry officials will conduct enforcement to educate the public and businesses about the new regulations. – October 3, 2024