In 2022, New Zealand passed a ground-breaking anti-smoking law that banned the sale of tobacco to everyone born after 2008. The law aimed to remove the product from future generations, reducing the health impacts for the generations included in the ban.
This legislation saw a reduction in the number of outlets allowed to sell cigarettes, they quickly went from 8000 to 600. It also reduced the level of nicotine permitted in cigarettes, making them less satisfying to smokers looking for a nicotine “hit”.
Unfortunately, these measures were repealed this month. Under a coalition agreement between the conservative National Party and the right wing populist New Zealand First Party.
The Royal Australiasian College of Dental Surgeons (RACDS) expresses deep concern regarding the decision to repeal the Smokefree Amendments Act.
The AAPD stands in solidarity with the statement and as the RACDS. As RACDS stated and we know all too well, the reversal raises serious implications for oral health and overall wellbeing.
AAPD urges the New Zealand government to reconsider its repeal and prioritize the long-term health and wellbeing of all Kiwis.
You can read the full media statement from RACDS here.
