In her opening speech, chair of the National Assembly’s Committee for Social Affairs Nguyen Thuy Anh said that, in recent years, in addition to traditional tobacco, Vietnamese have become familiar with ENDs (Electronic Nicotine Delivery) and HTPs (Heated Tobacco Product).

The use of these products is on the rise, especially among youth and students. 

Electronic tobacco products with mixed and marinated addictive substances are in the markets. Meanwhile, advertisements about ENDs and HTPs have appeared everywhere and it is very easy to buy the products offline and online via social networks.

Anh cited scientific research as saying that using ENDs and HTPs may harm physical and mental health, and affect social order and security.

The use of the products with drugs, addictive and stimulants also puts a financial burden on individuals and families because users have to spend money not only on tobacco, but also on treatment of the diseases caused by use. This burdens the society because of the impact on the labor force and productivity. 

National Assembly Deputies, National Assembly Committee for Social Affairs, and Committee for Culture and Education have conducted a market survey, checked legal documents and worked with experts on the issues related to the new tobacco products.

A Q&A session was held aiming at making the issue transparent before citizens and voters about the harmful effects of ENDs and HTPs, and the problems and responsibility state management agencies have.

The discussion will help reach a consensus on solutions to heighten awareness about ENDs and HTPs, and improve the legal framework and state management responsibility.

National Assembly’s Deputy Chair Tran Thanh Man said prevention against the harmful effects caused by tobacco has gained important achievements. The use of tobacco has been decreasing and the fight against tobacco smuggling has gained encouraging results. 

However, Vietnam is still one of 15 countries with the highest number of adult men smoking.

Thu Hang