President Lai: Protecting Youth Through E-cigarette Regulation and Education

Central News Agency, Taipei, May 30. With e-cigarettes posing a significant risk to youth health, President Lai Ching-te stated today that the government will strengthen management mechanisms through legal amendments regarding possession and proxy purchasing. He emphasized a three-pronged approach: comprehensive enforcement by police, customs, and prosecutors, combined with school education and family support to protect youth health and campus safety. President Lai attended a forum hosted by Business Weekly this afternoon. Responding to a student's question, the President noted that e-cigarettes are reaching youth through online sales and proxy purchasing, which the government takes seriously. He stated that while current laws already ban the manufacture, import, and sale of designated tobacco products, the government will continue to review and refine management mechanisms to close loopholes. Regarding the influence of TikTok and Xiaohongshu on Taiwanese children, the President pointed out that if this issue is not addressed, it could affect national security. He emphasized that beyond technical blocking, it is essential to build a 'shield of national awareness' through historical critical thinking and democratic resilience. He warned that failing to recognize China as a threat could lead to a loss of the will to protect the nation, urging the Ministry of Education to promote critical thinking in classrooms.