The debate comes at a critical juncture for South Africa’s public health and economy. The current bill includes plain packaging, graphic health warnings, a ban on advertising, public vaping restrictions, and limits on vape flavors. Industry leaders like Philip Morris International (PMI) argue this approach ignores scientific evidence showing reduced harm from smoke-free products, urging a differentiated regulatory framework like those in the UK and Japan.

PMI says equal restrictions discourage smokers from switching to less harmful alternatives. But health groups and some lawmakers remain cautious, citing youth vaping risks and insufficient long-term safety data.

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