The government is edging nearer to tightening smoking regulations as Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Health intensifies its review of the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill.

The committee, chaired by Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, concluded provincial public hearings last month, drawing inputs from industry representatives, public health experts, civil society organisations, and members of the public. More time is now being dedicated to presentations and discussions with the aim of completing the legislation soon.

The bill, revived in June 2024 under the new administration, has faced strong opposition from business and labour groups. It faced pushback from stakeholders at Nedlac, prompting further consultations.

Although legal advisers cleared the committee to proceed in October 2025, pressure from businesses and members of the Government of National Unity (GNU) resulted in another round of national consultations and public feedback.

According to Business Tech, the proposed legislation introduces significant changes, including:

• Stricter regulation of vapes and e-cigarettes, aligning them with traditional tobacco products.
• Plain packaging with graphic health warnings.
• A total ban on product displays at retail outlets.
• The elimination of cigarette vending machines.
• Smoke-free indoor public spaces and designated outdoor areas.

The committee noted the substantial public health implications of tobacco use and the rise of electronic nicotine delivery systems.

Business groups have raised concerns about job losses and the economic impact of the proposed measures. Vape King warned that informal traders would be particularly affected by the ban on single-stick cigarette sales, while retailers argued that prohibiting product displays could make some businesses unviable.

There are also fears that tighter restrictions could encourage the illicit cigarette trade, as experienced during the COVID-19 tobacco ban. Vape industry representatives continue to argue that e-cigarettes should be regulated separately from traditional tobacco products.

The committee acknowledged the complexity of the issue and is weighing up stakeholder concerns, including illicit trade, employment impacts and harm-reduction strategies, while maintaining its focus on safeguarding public health and reducing tobacco-related disease.