Proposed flavoured vape ban unfairly targets struggling stores, Manitoba industry association argues
A proposed ban on flavoured vapes in Manitoba would unfairly target struggling stores, industry groups argue.Summary
A proposed Manitoba ban on flavoured vape sales would disproportionately affect convenience stores already struggling due to contraband tobacco, according to the Convenience Industry Council of Canada. Sara MacIntyre, the Council's vice-president, noted that while 43% of specialty vape shops violate federal guidelines, less than 1% of gas and convenience stores do. She argued that the ban ignores online retailers with lax age verification and would harm local businesses that have lost 14% of their stores since 2020 due to the contraband tobacco crisis. Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara defended the ban, stating that flavoured vapes are marketed to children and a gateway to tobacco use. Opposition Leader Obby Khan supported the idea but criticized the timing, and the Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses called for reasonable implementation guidelines.
(Source：Winnipeg Free Press)
