In recent years, more and more countries have begun to ban e-cigarettes, while traditional tobacco products remain legally available. At first glance, this may appear to be a move to “protect public health,” but is it truly reasonable?
 
First, it’s important to acknowledge that e-cigarettes are not entirely harmless, but numerous authoritative studies have shown that they are significantly less harmful than traditional cigarettes. For example, Public Health England has stated that e-cigarettes may pose only 5–10% of the harm caused by smoking. For many smokers trying to quit or reduce tobacco use, e-cigarettes serve as the only viable alternative.
 
However, when e-cigarettes are banned but traditional tobacco continues to be sold legally, the situation becomes problematic. This approach does not protect health — it takes away the option of a less harmful choice. Many people who use e-cigarettes to cut down on smoking may be forced to return to more dangerous cigarettes. This is clearly a step backward for public health.
 
Additionally, blanket bans often fuel black markets. Unregulated, illegal vape products are difficult to control in quality and may pose even greater risks. Instead of banning, it would be more effective to establish a clear regulatory framework, set product safety standards, and strictly prevent youth access.
 
For e-cigarette companies, such policies undermine innovation and disrupt the global vaping supply chain, especially in countries like China, which produces more than 80% of the world’s vape products.
 
E-cigarettes are not the enemy — misuse is. The right path forward is science-based regulation, precise guidance, and differentiated policies.