The Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Health is set to hear opinions on the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill in the Free State from Saturday (28/10) to Sunday (29/10).

Dr Sharon Nyatsanza, Deputy Director of the National Council Against Smoking (NCAS), said the Bill mandates a complete prohibition of smoking in all indoor public spaces and specific outdoor areas as determined by the minister. It also outlaws the sale of cigarettes via vending machines, enforces plain packaging featuring graphic health warnings or pictorial representations, and prohibits the display of tobacco products at the point of sale.

The hearings will start on Saturday in Kroonstad in the Allen Rautenbach Hall from 10:00 – 15:00. They will be concluded on Sunday in Bloemfontein at Leslie Monnanyane Hall from 10:00 – 15:00. “The hearings held in Limpopo, the North West Province, and Mpumalanga have shown substantial backing for the forthcoming tobacco control legislation. This support remains steadfast despite continuous efforts by the tobacco industry to influence the proceedings.”

Economic Impact

During the previous hearings, proponents of the Bill emphasised the significant financial strain imposed on the healthcare system by smoking-related illnesses. They highlighted the tax revenues generated by the tobacco industry, estimated at approximately R13 billion, are far overshadowed by the R42 billion (equivalent to about 1% of the GDP) spent by the Department of Health on treating illnesses caused by tobacco use.

“This encompasses costs associated with premature deaths and reduced productivity. Supporters argued that the proposed provisions in the bill would alleviate the healthcare system's burden in managing tobacco-related diseases.”

In the farming communities of Limpopo and Mpumalanga, concerns were voiced about potential job losses and the impact on the tobacco-growing industry. Small business owners also expressed worries about potential losses in their revenue. However, it was noted that these concerns lacked substantial evidence, thereby confirming that they were driven by fear-mongering tactics employed by the tobacco industry to obstruct the Bill.

Introducing plain packaging

The Bill also incorporates provisions that grant the Minister the authority to oversee the manufacturing, testing, packaging, and labelling of both tobacco products and electronic delivery systems. Another key aspect of the bill is the implementation of standardised packaging for both tobacco and non-tobacco-based products, which received widespread support. “Advocates argue that plain packaging will deter manufacturers from enticing young individuals with colourful packaging and will contribute to reducing overall consumption.”

Concerns were expressed about children's exposure to tobacco products and the risk of children spending their study time smoking cigarettes or using 'vapes' due to nicotine addiction. Supporters of the Bill asserted that its passage would ensure the protection of children. The use of plain packaging and graphic warning policies has proven successful in other countries and enjoys strong support. In South Africa, 58% of smokers have indicated that graphic health warnings depicting the consequences of tobacco use would motivate them to quit.

Backing for e-cigarette regulation

The proposed regulation of electronic delivery systems garnered significant support during the hearings. Speakers voiced concerns about the deliberate targeting of young people by marketers of electronic cigarettes, commonly referred to as vapes, which results in their exposure to harmful substances. Supporters of the Bill argued that it effectively closes a regulatory loophole and establishes a comprehensive framework for regulating the marketing, sales, standards, and use of these products.

Many young individuals, including representatives from the South African Tobacco-Free Youth Forum, criticised the tobacco and electronic delivery system manufacturers. They contended that these industries prioritise their profits over the well-being of the population, particularly that of young people.

OFM News/Tshehla Koteli