British American Tobacco New Zealand - Progressive Regulation
We support the New Zealand Government’s objective to achieve smokefree status and recognise the role of sensible regulation in helping achieve this objective.
We support tobacco and nicotine regulation that:
- is based on robust evidence
- respects legal rights
- effectively delivers intended policy goals; and
- avoids unintended consequences, such as the growth of illegal markets.
Although not risk-free, smokeless tobacco products – such as vapour and nicotine pouches – offer consumers the opportunity to consume nicotine with reduced risks compared to cigarette smoking.*
Evidence from various countries suggests that where progressive legislation has been introduced, which encourages smokers who would otherwise continue to smoke to choose smokeless alternatives, there is an associated decline in smoking rates.
Along with industry, government and the public health community, we have a key role in maximising the potential of smokeless products to contribute to tobacco harm reduction. To achieve this objective, these products must be supported by regulation and complemented by responsible industry practices.
We believe that an effective regulatory regime for smokeless products should include:
- Legal access and differentiated regulation
- High quality and safety standards
- Child resistance and tamper evident
- Nicotine limits
- Prohibition on underage use
- Flavour restrictions allowing only adult-oriented flavours
- Responsible packaging and descriptors
- Adult-targeted communications; and
- Robust enforcement and sanctions.
We want to be part of the debate, offering information, ideas and practical steps to support regulators to reduce smoking rates and the associated health impacts, by contributing to sensible and effective regulation that is workable for all parties concerned
*Based on the weight of evidence and assuming a complete switch from cigarette smoking. These produts are not risk free and are addictive.