New Zealand’s government has announced the repeal of a groundbreaking law, set to take effect in July, that would have implemented the world’s toughest anti-tobacco rules. The law aimed to ban tobacco sales to individuals born after January 1, 2009, reduce nicotine content in tobacco products, and decrease the number of tobacco retailers by over 90%. The decision to repeal the law has faced criticism for potential negative health impacts, and concerns have been raised about its disproportionate effect on Maori and Pasifika populations with higher smoking rates. The government, while emphasizing its commitment to reducing smoking, plans to adopt alternative regulatory measures to discourage smoking and reduce harm.
New Zealand to repeal pioneering law banning tobacco sales for future generations.
