South Africa’s proposed new smoking and vaping laws have moved a step closer after Parliament began clause-by-clause deliberations on the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill.

The Portfolio Committee on Health started the process on Wednesday after voting in favour of the Bill’s desirability in June.

MPs will now work through individual provisions and consider possible amendments before finalising a committee report.

The Bill would then need to proceed through further parliamentary processes before it can become law.

Smoking and vaping face tighter controls

The proposed legislation seeks to strengthen restrictions on tobacco products and electronic delivery systems.

Its measures include tighter controls on smoking in public spaces, advertising, promotion and sponsorship.

It would also regulate the packaging and appearance of tobacco and vaping products, including provisions for standardised packaging and health warnings.

Retail displays and vending-machine sales would face restrictions, while the Bill also prohibits sales to children and the free distribution of covered products.

Electronic delivery systems, including vaping products, are specifically included in the legislation.

MPs recognise differences between products

One issue raised during public consultations was whether combustible tobacco products and non-combustible alternatives should be treated in exactly the same way.

Committee chair Faith Muthambi said lawmakers had recognised a distinction between the two categories during their deliberations.

The committee will consider how that distinction should be reflected as it works through the Bill.

Illicit tobacco remains major concern

The committee has also acknowledged concerns that illicit tobacco trade could undermine stricter regulation.

Muthambi said most members supported South Africa ratifying the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products as part of efforts to strengthen enforcement.

Public hearings on the Bill drew thousands of participants across all nine provinces before the desirability vote in June.

Parliament says there is broad agreement among parties represented on the committee to continue processing the legislation.

However, the proposed restrictions are not yet law.

Further amendments remain possible before the Bill reaches the National Assembly for debate and approval.