Taiwan’s proposed regulations will ban 27 types of chemicals in tobacco products. Photo credit: 2happy, Stockvault
Taiwan’s Ministry of Health and Welfare revealed a draft of new regulations aimed at banning 27 types of chemicals in tobacco products, including cigarettes, vapes, and heat-not-burn devices, reports the Taipei Times.
The earlier version of the ban, which targeted only mint, floral, fruit, and chocolate-flavored tobacco products, was withdrawn after criticism from anti-smoking advocates who felt the regulations were too limited.
Lo Su-ying, head of the Health Promotion Agency’s Tobacco Control Division, explained that the updated proposal would allow the ministry to eliminate over half of the flavored tobacco products currently available on the market.
Amendments to the Tobacco Hazards Prevention Act, which were introduced last year, grant the government the authority to ban specific chemical compounds in tobacco products, Lo explained.
The proposed list includes vanillin, maltol, and heliotropin—chemicals frequently used as flavoring agents in tobacco products. These compounds are essential for creating flavors like caramel, butter, almond, rose, coconut, raspberry, vanilla, and cheese.
Manufacturers and importers who produce or bring in tobacco products containing these banned chemicals could face fines ranging from NT$1-5 million (US$30,826-154,131). Additionally, selling such products would result in fines between NT$10,000-50,000, Lo said.
The new regulations will be open for public review for 60 days before they are finalized. Lo also noted that the government does not intend to immediately impose fines or penalties on tobacco users.