KINGSTON, Jamaica, Tuesday September 16, 2014, CMC – Less than 24 hours after it announced an immediate ban on the importation of electronic cigarettes, Health Minister Dr. Fenton Ferguson said he plans to meet with stakeholders amid suggestions that some concessions could be granted.
An e-cigarette is a battery-powered vaporiser, which simulates tobacco smoking, by producing an aerosol that resembles smoke.
On Monday, the Ministry of Health advised Jamaica Customs to immediately cease clearance of electronic cigarettes already in the island and halt importation of the item.
The decision was criticised by cigarette distributor Carreras, which said that the stance taken by the Ministry would impact thousands of Jamaicans and businesses.
But Dr. Ferguson said the decision was made by a technical team and based on all the factors involved, it will be reviewed.
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“Persons must be given adequate time to deal with the present situation and (concerning) any question of permit they should have adequate time and public information before it is done.
“Therefore my decision is that after consultations with the Permanent Secretary, my Chief Medical Officer and my director (and) we will withdraw the position until further notice,” Dr. Ferguson said, adding he was also prepared to meet with the stakeholders to hear their concerns.
“I will be giving the stakeholders time to deal with the present situation while we are engaged in conversation,” he said.
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Jamaica government to review e-cigarette ban
