Vaping rates among younger Australians plunge as smoking falls to historic low
Smoking rates in Australia have hit a historic low, but nicotine consumption is rising as some users switch to snus and nicotine pouches.Summary
Australia has achieved a historic low in smoking rates, with daily smoking dropping to 5.8 per cent, a reduction of 500,000 people since 2021. However, data from the National Drug Strategy Household Survey indicates a doubling in the use of multiple nicotine products, including snus and nicotine pouches. While daily vaping among younger Australians has declined, the use of oral nicotine products like snus has surged, particularly among those aged 18 to 24. In response, the government has announced a crackdown on nicotine pouches, banning their sale even with a prescription, citing concerns about protecting younger Australians and the illicit tobacco trade. The government faces significant challenges in combating the illicit market, which now accounts for up to 80 per cent of nicotine product consumption, costing billions in lost revenue.
(Source：ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation))
