The Bangladesh Electronic Nicotine Delivery System Traders Association (BENDSTA) has called for more evidence-based and practical policies for Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS), also known as e-cigarettes. The organization raised concerns that misleading information is being shared about these products, a press release said.
The comments were made at a press conference held on Saturday (4 April) at 7:30 PM at the GG Banquet Hall of Platinum Grand in Banani, Dhaka.
At the event, BENDSTA said that the move to review the ban introduced during the interim government when ENDS and nicotine pouches were classified as tobacco products is a timely step. However, the organization expressed concern that some groups are presenting partial and misleading information during this process.
According to BENDSTA, around one million adults in Bangladesh currently use ENDS (vapes). Many of them use these products as an alternative to smoking or to reduce its harm. The organization also mentioned that the sector includes over a hundred businesses and more than 600 retail outlets, supporting the livelihoods of many people.
BENDSTA noted that while e-cigarettes are not completely risk-free, several international health organizations consider them less harmful than traditional cigarettes. It also said that UK health guidelines mention e-cigarettes as one of the options to help people quit smoking.
The organization added that in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and Italy, ENDS are not fully banned. Instead, they are allowed under certain regulations. BENDSTA warned that a complete ban could lead to the growth of black markets and the spread of unregulated products.
To address this, the organization proposed introducing a proper regulatory framework for the sector. This would include quality control, setting an age limit, licensing businesses, bringing the sector under taxation, and restricting access for minors.
BENDSTA leaders said that any policy on ENDS should consider three key areas: protecting public health, regulating the market, and reducing harm. They called for decisions to be based on scientific evidence and real-world understanding, rather than misleading information.
