WHO, UNICEF urge BD to retain e-cigarette ban

The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF have expressed strong concern over reports that Bangladesh may consider withdrawing its ban on e-cigarettes, warning that such a move could pose serious risks to public health, especially for young people.

In a joint statement, the UN agencies urged authorities to maintain the existing ban on the import, production, distribution, and use of e-cigarettes, which was introduced under the Smoking and Tobacco Products Usage (Amendment) Ordinance in December 2025. They also called for continued restrictions on the display of tobacco products at points of sale.

The organisations said these measures are intended to protect children and adolescents from nicotine exposure and other harmful substances that can damage lung and cardiovascular health, as well as affect non-users through second-hand exposure.

They further warned that e-cigarettes are often marketed to young people using flavours and targeted promotional strategies, raising concerns about the potential creation of a new generation dependent on nicotine.

According to the statement, nicotine is highly addictive and particularly harmful to children and adolescents, as it can interfere with brain development and increase the risk of long-term cognitive and mental health issues. Exposure during pregnancy was also noted as potentially harmful to fetal development.

Citing available evidence, the agencies said e-cigarette use significantly increases the likelihood that non-smoking youth may go on to use conventional cigarettes, with the risk nearly tripled.

They also stated that there is currently no conclusive evidence that e-cigarettes provide a net public health benefit.

Bangladesh already faces a significant tobacco-related health burden, with more than 130,000 deaths annually, accounting for nearly one in five deaths nationwide, along with substantial economic and social costs.

The agencies cautioned that wider access to new nicotine products could worsen this situation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong tobacco control policies to safeguard public health and support national health and development goals.

They reiterated their commitment to assisting Bangladesh in strengthening comprehensive tobacco control measures.