Vapeonomics: How a ban risks repeating the cigarette mistake — Yugendran T. Kannu Sivakumaran

AI Summary

Malaysia's Health Ministry is considering a vape ban, raising concerns about potential negative consequences similar to the prohibition era. With 55% of cigarettes already illicit, costing the government RM 5 billion annually, a vape ban could exacerbate the problem. Vapes currently generate RM 183.1 million in tax revenue, and a ban risks losing this income and fueling a black market, mirroring the illicit cigarette trade. Increased enforcement budgets would be necessary to combat this, further straining resources.