Mexico’s government, led by President Claudia Sheinbaum, plans to constitutionally ban e-cigarettes and vapes, aiming to address public health concerns. However, this move raises fears of expanding the black market, already dominated by powerful cartels like the Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation. Journalist Óscar Balderas warns that organised crime controls 90% of the vape market, reaping significant profits and exacerbating violence as they enforce control over illegal sales. The ban would likely push the remaining legal market into criminal hands, further complicating regulation and safety. An article in Ecigator highlights that Mexico’s vape ban has failed to curb usage but has instead incubated a black market, with prices ranging from 400 to 1,200 pesos ($20-$60 USD) depending on the product.

Public health expert Angélica Ospina acknowledges legitimate health risks associated with vaping, especially among youths targeted by colourful marketing. Yet, she argues that prohibition merely obscures the issue rather than resolving it. Both experts suggest regulation as a more effective strategy, akin to alcohol and tobacco control, which could involve health agency oversight and taxation to fund public health initiatives. As the debate continues, Mexico faces the challenge of balancing public safety with the realities of market dynamics. President Claudia Sheinbaum has announced that the vape ban could pass this year, emphasizing that the “reform must go through”. Read more

While the ban might seem like a way to protect health, it could just push the problem underground. Mexico will need to find a way to handle it without making things worse.

Source: The Guardian