Vape tax better than total ban says an industry player
Published on: Tue, Aug 05, 2025
By: Noor Zafira Zayn Text Size: KOTA KINABALU: Nanostix Innovations Sdn Bhd supports the government's move to expand health taxes to electronic cigarettes, calling it a more balanced and sustainable approach than a full ban. Its director, Shahabudeen Jalil, said taxation preserves public health while supporting responsible local businesses, despite impacting product pricing and operations. 'This is a more inclusive and progressive measure compared to an outright ban,' he said. He also urged the government to align its stance, noting contradictory statements between the Prime Minister and Health Minister, as well as inconsistent federal and state policies. 'This confusion disrupts the industry, hampers investments, and misleads consumers,' he added. Shahabudeen warned that a blanket ban risks growing the black market, while stressing the real issue is unregulated, untaxed, and potentially harmful illegal vape products that are flooding the market. * Read full report in tomorrow's print paper or log in or sign up for e-paper and premium online news access. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss.
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