Australia tightens grip with harsh new e‑cigarette regulations

Although many countries have introduced a ban on the sale of disposable e-cigarettes, Australia has taken it a step further by banning the sale of e-cigarettes in stores, at petrol stations, and from other small retail sellers. The new regulations restrict their sale exclusively to pharmacies.

After introducing some of the world's strictest anti-vaping laws, purchasing e-cigarettes in Australia has become significantly more complex since July, CNN reports. The new regulations restrict the sale of nicotine-containing e-cigarettes exclusively to pharmacies.

That's not all. Starting the following Monday, smokers will be required to present a prescription issued by a doctor to pharmacists to purchase an e-cigarette legally.

Australia is also eliminating numerous flavors intended to make the product more attractive. Only three will be available: mint, menthol, and tobacco.

Although many countries have banned the sale of disposable e-cigarettes, Australia has taken it a step further by introducing a ban on the sale of e-cigarettes in stores, at petrol stations, and from other small retail sellers. In doing so, CNN reports that Australia has set a new global standard in e-cigarette regulations.

According to Australian authorities, this radical step marks the end of colorful branding that appeals to young consumers and "fun" flavors. Authorities claim that such elements were deliberately used as a marketing ploy aimed at getting children and adolescents addicted to nicotine.