Taipei: A total of 431 sites where people can anonymously surrender illegal e-cigarette devices will be set up nationwide from September 8, the Health Promotion Administration (HPA) announced on Saturday.
According to Focus Taiwan, as part of efforts to curb the circulation of the illegal narcotic etomidate, the Cabinet in June approved a draft amendment to the Tobacco Hazards Prevention Act. This amendment would impose fines ranging from NT$30,000 (US$946) to NT$100,000 on individuals found in possession of e-cigarettes, which are banned in Taiwan. The draft has been sent to the Legislative Yuan for review.
Lo Su-ying, head of the HPA's Tobacco Control Division, stated that the collection points will be established at local health bureaus and health centers across the nation starting September 8. Individuals can voluntarily turn in their e-cigarettes without providing any personal information. The collection program is expected to continue for a one-month grace period once the amended law takes effect, after which those who continue to possess e-cigarettes will face fines and confiscation of their devices.
According to the HPA, the World Health Organization (WHO) and studies from multiple countries have found that e-cigarettes can release toxic substances, including formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, ultrafine particles, and heavy metals. These substances can cause DNA damage, increase cancer risk, and significantly impact adolescent brain development, potentially leading to anxiety, learning difficulties, and severe lung injuries.
The administration reminded the public that both smoking and e-cigarette use can harm health and encouraged people to quit as early as possible. Those seeking to quit smoking can call the toll-free smoking cessation hotline at 0800-636363 or access cessation services at nearly 3,000 contracted medical institutions nationwide, it added.