Australia Bans Vape Imports to Combat Child Nicotine Addiction

Importing single-use vapes into Australia will be banned from Jan. 1, 2024, as part of the federal government’s effort to stop nicotine addiction in children.  About one in seven teens (14-17 years old) and one in five young adults (18-24 years old) currently vape, according to the government’s latest data from the first quarter of 2023.  Strong evidence shows that young people who vape are about three times more likely to start tobacco smoking compared to those who have never vaped. Health Minister Mark Butler stressed the importance of “tough” new import controls due to nicotine dependence in children threatening Australia’s success in tobacco control....