Ahmedabad: Trade representatives of ENDS (Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems) in India on Tuesday submitted a representation to the Government of Gujarat to reconsider the attempt to ban the sale, distribution, and import of ENDS in the state. According to them, ENDS devices are less harmful nicotine delivery systems.The Gujarat assembly last week unanimously passed a bill banning e-cigarettes and other such items.
“Global studies have established that ENDS is a viable substitute to traditional smoking, in terms of impact on human health and environment,” states the representation. “This arbitrary ban is bound to result in the creation of a black market for ENDS products, resulting in the sale of spurious and unsafe products to the citizens of Gujarat.”
The trade body has also sought an open consultation with industry players, civil society organizations, NGOs, and medical experts to develop an appropriate regulatory framework for the e-cigarettes industry.