Kroonstad, Free State—The residents of Fezile Dabi District Municipality have voiced concerns that the newly proposed Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill (B33-2022) could adversely affect small-scale traders and contribute to rising unemployment in the area.
According to a new release by the Parliament of South Africa, the committee conducted the first of two public hearings on the bill at Allen Rautenbach Hall in Kroonstad. Opinions on the legislation were divided, with some participants supporting the bill while others opposed various aspects of it.
Among the criticisms of the bill was the perceived impact on small businesses, particularly those that rely on the sale of single stick cigarettes. Opponents argued that the prohibition of such sales could deal a devastating blow to local commerce. Further concerns were raised about the bill granting sole powers to the Minister to establish a monitoring committee, a move viewed as undesirable for public transparency and accountability. Additionally, some residents warned that the proposed penalties in the bill could result in fuller prisons and higher unemployment rates.
Agricultural interests were also at the forefront of the discussion. Due to the province’s dependence on agriculture for its gross domestic product, fears were expressed that the bill could negatively affect farm workers and overall agricultural productivity.
On the other hand, those in favor of the bill highlighted its focus on promoting public health. Supporters pointed to the lack of regulation as contributing to an increase in tobacco consumption, particularly of electronic delivery systems. They welcomed the proposed restrictions on the sale of tobacco products to minors and the prohibition of single stick cigarette sales. The bill was also praised for its progressive stance in addressing high rates of consumption and for its protective measures against second-hand smoke.
Language accessibility was another point of discussion. Participants suggested that health warnings about tobacco should be translated into all 11 official South African languages to ensure widespread understanding. The proposed plain packaging, they argued, would deter the glamourization of smoking.
The Portfolio Committee on Health acknowledged the varied feedback and assured residents that all views would be given due consideration. The committee will continue its public hearings in the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality on October 29th, 2023, at Leslie Monnanyane Hall from 10:00 to 15:00.
The Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill (B33-2022) aims to align South African tobacco laws with the World Health Organisation Framework Convention and to repeal the existing Tobacco Control Act of 1993. Proposed changes include designating indoor public spaces as 100% smoke-free, banning cigarette sales through vending machines, introducing plain packaging with graphic health warnings, and banning point-of-sale displays.