Group backs vaping green light

VAPING should legalised to help Tasmania cut smoking rates while helping the health system and economy, a retail group says.

The Australian Retail Vaping Industry Association (ARVIA) said research had shown vaping was up to 95 per cent less harmful than smoking.

ARVIA spokesman Russell Zimmerman said that had led to many developed nations legalising and regulating it as a proven way to help people quit cigarettes.

“Studies from New Zealand forecast the country is set to

MERYL NAIDOO

see health system savings of $720 per citizen from their liberalised approach to vaping, savings which I’m sure most would agree would be very welcome in Tasmania,’’ he said..

“Legalising vaping would be a win-win-win for Tasmania’s health, jobs and economy.

“With the second highest smoking rate in Australia ... every measure which helps Tasmanians give up traditional cigarettes offers significant health benefits.” He said Bridgewater and Gagebrook have some of the highest smoking rates in the country.

Robert Mallett, Tasmanian Small Business Council CEO, said many western countries had recognised regulated vaping as an effective and legitimate was to stop smoking and as a tool to reduce harm.

On behalf of ARVIA, on Monday Mr Mallett released a Tasmanian Vaping Industry Economic Impact Assessment, showing legalising in Tasmania will lead to better health outcomes and more economic activity.

The paper suggests legalising vaping in Tasmania would save the average smoker $9000 per year and a first mover advantage could shift $438 million spent overseas by vapers Australia-wide to Tasmania’s economy.