Medical Groups Fume Over Govt's E-cigarette Move

A group of medical experts on Friday joined the Council on Smoking and Health (Cosh) in criticising the government over its decision to regulate electronic cigarettes like traditional tobacco products, instead of imposing an outright ban.

The Medical Association, Doctors Union and Dental Association in a joint statement said they were disappointed by the government's position.

They say officials had said three years ago that import, manufacturing and sale of these products will be banned in Hong Kong.

The medical groups and Cosh warned that more people – especially youngsters – will be drawn to trying out e-cigarettes, which are often marketed as trendy products.

Cosh chairman Antonio Kwong said the government must right its wrong.

"We will see a dramatic increase in the use of these products. We strongly believe that there's a high chance that the smoking prevalence will increase instead of carrying on its downward trend," he said.

The Health Secretary Sophia Chan defended the government's decision and denied it was done under pressure from anyone.

She added that the regulation will take into account the approach taken by other jurisdictions, the local situation and recommendations from the World Health Organisation.

She also pledged to keep reviewing the proposed regulations and strengthen them if necessary.