Buenos Aires Debates Regulation of Vapes and Nicotine Pouches Amidst Rising Youth Consumption

The Buenos Aires Legislature is set to debate a new project aimed at regulating the use and sale of vapes and nicotine pouches, driven by growing concerns over their increasing consumption, especially among adolescents.

The initiative, proposed by lawmaker Manuela Thourte, seeks to integrate these "emerging tobacco and nicotine products" into the city's public health strategy. A primary focus is preventing access and use by minors, addressing the rising prevalence of these products among young people.

According to data cited in the project's foundations, a national study on psychoactive substance use among secondary students indicated that 35.5% of adolescents had used vapes in the past year. The project also highlights persistent misconceptions, with many young people believing these devices are not harmful.

If approved, the regulations would prohibit the sale, delivery, or supply of vapes, e-cigarettes, heated tobacco devices, and nicotine pouches to anyone under 18. Furthermore, the use of these products would be banned in all enclosed public spaces, including transportation, educational institutions, hospitals, and sports venues, mirroring existing restrictions on traditional tobacco.

Advertising and promotional activities for these new-generation nicotine products would also be prohibited, except within authorized retail locations, where visible health warnings would be required. The project also calls for strengthening epidemiological surveillance and the healthcare system's response to the issue.

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Although these devices are often presented as less harmful alternatives to conventional cigarettes, they contain potentially harmful substances.