Health Group Backs DTI Vape Pod Ban, Demands Total Prohibition

While welcoming the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) proposal to ban open vape pods and e-liquids, the TobaccOFF NOW! Movement argues this is insufficient. They are calling for a total ban on all vaping and novel tobacco products, warning that partial restrictions create loopholes that allow youth to simply switch to disposable or closed-system alternatives.

Key Takeaways:

Partial Ban Support: Group backs DTI’s move against open pods/e-liquids.
Loophole Warning: Fear that users will migrate to disposables instead of quitting.
Total Ban Call: Urging prohibition of all vapes, HTPs, and nicotine pouches.

The TobaccOFF NOW! Movement has confirmed its support for the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) proposal to restrict harmful vape products, but insists on a total ban. This development occurs amidst a government push to tighten regulations, directly resulting in a debate over whether partial bans on open systems are enough to protect public health.

“Dangerous Behavioral Loophole”

Vonn Tanchuan, campaign lead for TobaccOFF NOW!, warned that the DTI’s draft administrative order, which targets open pods and e-liquids, might inadvertently encourage users to switch products rather than quit.

“Targeting only open pods and e-liquids creates a dangerous behavioral loophole where users, especially the youth, are likely to simply migrate to disposable or closed-system alternatives,” Tanchuan stated.

Advocating for a Comprehensive Approach

The group is urging the government to move beyond “piecemeal regulations” and adopt a comprehensive prohibition covering all novel tobacco products. This aligns with a proposal raised by the Department of Health in November 2025.

Proposed DTI Restriction	TobaccOFF NOW! Demand
Ban on Open Pods & E-liquids	Total ban on All Vapes, HTPs, & Nicotine Pouches
Focus on specific product types	Comprehensive prohibition to stop nicotine dependence

The DTI has opened its proposed measure for public consultation, seeking stakeholder feedback on the ban of open pods and e-liquids due to health and safety concerns.

News reference: Group backs DTI’s proposed vape pod ban, presses for total vape ban

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Matthew Ma

Marketing at Ecigator

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.