Austria Rejects WHO-Backed Cigarette Filter & Vape Ban

Austria’s Ministry of Health has issued a clear rejection of potential bans on filter cigarettes and e-cigarettes, which are being discussed at the World Health Organization’s (WHO) five-day summit (COP11) in Geneva. Delegates from 180 member states are deliberating new measures to combat tobacco consumption, with a focus on industry lobbying and the dangers of novel nicotine products like vapes and snus for youth.

A WHO expert group has recommended prohibiting the import and production of filter cigarettes to reduce their appeal and environmental impact, as plastic filters constitute a significant source of pollution. The EU Council has reportedly supported this recommendation. A ban on e-cigarettes is also being discussed as an additional regulatory option. For Austria, where 95% of cigarettes have filters, such a ban would be nearly equivalent to a total cigarette prohibition.

In response to an inquiry from “Heute,” the Austrian Health Ministry stated unequivocally: “With us, there will be no ban on tobacconists, no ban on cigarettes, no ban on cigarette filters, and all of this will not happen over Austria’s head.” This firm stance sets up a potential conflict as the international community debates stricter tobacco control measures.

• Read more: Austria Plans to Ban Disposable E-Cigarettes
• News source: Kommt jetzt Zigaretten-Verbot? Das sagt Regierung

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Matthew Ma

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With over a decade of experience in the e-cigarette industry, Matthew Ma is a seasoned expert in both the manufacturing and usage aspects of vaping products. His extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of the intricacies and evolving dynamics of e-cigarettes.

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