Why blanket bans risk strengthening illicit markets — Tarmizi Anuwar (opens original article in a new tab)

The article argues that blanket vape bans and excessive tobacco taxes risk strengthening illicit markets by driving demand to unregulated channels, citing examples from Singapore, Brazil, and Australia where such policies failed to reduce consumption.

• Countries with strict vape bans still face ongoing vaping and illicit markets
• Illicit cigarette consumption in Malaysia rose to 56.7% in early 2026
• Prohibition of vape products risks shifting demand to unregulated illegal channels
• Higher tobacco taxes may increase illicit market activity if enforcement lags