Malaysia mulls vapor ban

Malaysia is considering a ban on vapor products following an outbreak of vaping-related deaths and illnesses in the United States, reports Reuters.

“A detailed study is required to review the need for enforcing a total ban on the sale of electronic cigarettes and vapes,” Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad told Parliament.

Tobacco products in Malaysia are currently regulated under the Food Act while the sale of vaporizer liquids containing nicotine has been banned since 2015.

The country is finalizing a law that would ban the use of all smoking products, including electronic cigarettes and vaporizers, among minors and prohibit their promotion and advertising.

As of Friday, U.S. authorities had reported 29 deaths and 1,299 cases of respiratory illnesses linked to the use of vapor products.