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The Portfolio Committee on Health met on Wednesday to receive a presentation from the Department of Health on the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill.

The Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill was tabled in Parliament on 9 December 2022 and subsequently referred to the Portfolio Committee on Health for consideration.

The Bill aims to strengthen public health protection measures, align South African tobacco control law with the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, and repeal the Tobacco Control Act of 1993 and its amendments. Key provisions in the Bill include the introduction of 100 percent smoke-free indoor public places and certain outdoor areas; a ban on the sale of cigarettes through vending machines; the implementation of plain packaging with graphic health warnings; a ban on the display of products at points of sale; and the regulation and control of electronic nicotine delivery systems and non-nicotine delivery systems.

In his presentation, the Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla, highlighted the government's commitment to addressing the severe health risks associated with tobacco use, which leads to millions of deaths globally each year. He outlined the urgent need for the Tobacco Control Bill, which aims to reduce smoking rates and protect vulnerable populations, particularly youth and women.

Dr Phaahla presented alarming statistics. The figures show that there were over 25 000 smoking-related deaths in South Africa in 2016. He stressed that the proposed measures would control tobacco advertising and improve public awareness campaigns about the dangers of smoking and vaping.

The Deputy Minister also addressed concerns about the illicit tobacco trade and the necessity for effective enforcement to ensure compliance with the new regulations. He said that this legislation is a crucial step toward safeguarding public health and reducing the prevalence of tobacco use in the country.
The committee acknowledged the need for effective legislation to address the health impacts of tobacco use. Some members expressed concerns about the illicit tobacco trade, which poses a threat to the Bill’s objectives of reducing smoking rates. Questions were raised about the necessity of a social impact study and the public consultation process for the Bill.

Some committee members voiced significant concerns about the effectiveness of current regulatory mechanisms in curbing the illicit tobacco trade and called for robust enforcement measures to ensure adherence to the new legislation. Members stressed the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders to successfully implement the Bill and achieve its objectives of reducing smoking rates and promoting healthier lifestyles.
 
Regarding e-cigarettes, some committee members stressed the need for comprehensive data to assess the health risks associated with vaping compared to traditional smoking. Members of the committee proposed that penalties for non-compliance with the new regulations may not be sufficient to deter violations. The committee underscored the necessity for effective public health campaigns to educate the population about the dangers of both smoking and the use of e-cigarettes. Members advocated for a multifaceted approach to reduce tobacco use and protect the health of young people.

Some committee members also raised concerns about the potential social and economic impacts of the Tobacco Control Bill, urging the committee to consider the livelihoods of those involved in the tobacco industry. The committee called for public education initiatives to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use and the benefits of quitting, stressing that community engagement is vital for the success of the Bill.

Committee Chairperson Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo said that the committee will likely conclude public hearings in the two outstanding provinces. “I think we will proceed as we have in the past because there are institutions we are not aware of and many individuals who wish to come forward to express their views about this Bill and their interests. We will hold a meeting like this to give them space. But we need to conclude our engagements with the DOH on this matter.”

Issued by the Parliamentary Communication Services on behalf of the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Health, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo