The Canadian Vaping Association warns that proposed flavor bans could lead to an expansion of the black market, while youth usage has already significantly declined.
The Canadian Vaping Association (CVA) has issued a warning that a proposed federal ban on e-cigarette flavors would strengthen the illicit trade. The statement comes as several health organizations are pushing for an immediate ban on all flavors except tobacco, menthol, and mint, citing that sweet and fruity varieties attract minors.
Citing Health Canada data, the CVA pointed out that the vaping rate among Canadian youth aged 12 to 17 fell to about six percent by 2024, representing a 60 percent decrease from the 2019 peak and well below the government’s 10 percent target. Simultaneously, retail compliance increased from 69 percent to 90 percent by 2025. According to an academic economic analysis, illegal sales may already account for about 30 percent of the market, particularly in provinces where stricter local restrictions have been implemented.
The association also reminded that 19.4 percent of adults looking to quit smoking used e-cigarettes, and about 68 percent of these users chose flavors that would be banned under the proposal. The federal government has not yet set a specific target date for finalizing and implementing the restrictions.
In Brief
- The vaping rate among Canadian youth aged 12–17 fell to about 6% by 2024, a 60% decrease since 2019.
- According to the CVA, banning flavors would drive adult consumers toward the black market, which is already estimated to be at 30%.
- About 68% of adult e-cigarette users trying to quit smoking prefer flavors that would be banned.
- The proposal is included in the regulatory plans of Canadian health authorities, but there is no set deadline for its implementation.
Source: Vaping360 (vaping360.com)
This summary was prepared by artificial intelligence based on the original article.