Parliament, Thursday, 20 March 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Health resumed its public hearings on the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill.
During the public engagement process, the members heard presentations from the Tobacco, Alcohol and Gambling Advisory, Advocacy and Action Group (TAG).
Committee chairperson Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo said in his opening remarks that the committee concluded its provincial public hearings last month, where the committee heard from various interested parties, including industry representatives, public health experts, civil society organisations and members of the public.
“The committee is committed to a thorough, transparent and inclusive process in considering this important legislation,” said Dr Dhlomo. “We understand the significant public health implications of tobacco use and the emergence of emerging electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) and we are determined to ensure that the final bill strikes the right balance between protecting public health and addressing the socioeconomic considerations.”
The TAG presentation provided the committee with a detailed analysis of the proposed bill, offering practical suggestions and recommendations to strengthen the legislation. The members had many clarification-seeking questions on issues such as the impact of illicit trade, the potential role of harm reduction strategies and the evidence around the health risks of non-nicotine ENDS products.
“The committee is aware of the complex nature of the tobacco and ENDS landscape in South Africa,” said Dr Dhlomo. “We are carefully considering the issues raised by stakeholders, including the need to address illicit trade, mitigate job losses, and explore the potential role of harm reduction, while prioritising the overarching goal of safeguarding public health and reducing the burden of tobacco-related diseases.”
Committee members’ questions and concerns during the discussions included the need for a stronger focus on scientific evidence, the potential unintended consequences of overly restrictive measures, and the importance of ensuring that the legislation is responsive to the diverse needs and circumstances of South Africans.
“We are committed to working collaboratively with all interested parties to ensure that the final Tobacco and Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems Control Bill is robust, evidence-based, and responsive to the diverse needs and concerns of South Africans,” concluded Dr Dhlomo. “The health and well-being of our citizens are of paramount importance and this legislation will be a critical tool in our efforts to create a healthier, more sustainable future for all.”
The committee’s deliberations on the bill will continue in the coming weeks, with the goal of finalising the legislation and presenting it to the National Assembly for consideration. Committee members have indicated that they will be allocating additional meeting time, including outside the regular Wednesday sessions, to ensure that all stakeholders have the opportunity to contribute to the process.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON HEALTH, DR SIBONGISENI DHLOMO.
For media inquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact the committee’s Media Officer:
Name: Yoliswa Landu (Ms)
Cell: 081 497 4694
E-mail: ylandu@parliament.gov.za
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