The Bangladesh Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems Traders Association (BENDSTA) on Tuesday called for a comprehensive review of the Tobacco Control Ordinance 2025 in Parliament, claiming that nearly one million adults in Bangladesh currently use electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) or vapes, many of them as an alternative to reduce the harms of smoking or to quit tobacco.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) auditorium, BENDSTA President Suman Zaman described the proposed ban on vape products as a policy discrimination.
The association said the matter is currently under review by the High Court, which has already observed that Section 6(c) of the ordinance contradicts the Constitution and directed authorities not to confiscate legally imported vape products.
BENDSTA leaders said most countries around the world are managing electronic nicotine products through regulated frameworks, and urged Bangladesh to adopt a practical and evidence-based policy rather than imposing a blanket ban.
The press conference was also attended by BENDSTA Vice President Anis Khan, General Secretary Rezwan Ahmed and Assistant General Secretary Taufiq Ahmed.
Speakers warned that if a total ban is imposed, the market could effectively shift to the black market, increasing the spread of substandard products, enabling uncontrolled access for teenagers, and ultimately raising public health risks.
They also highlighted the potential economic impact of such a decision. According to BENDSTA, more than 100 businesses and over 600 chain stores currently operate under this sector, providing employment to thousands of educated middle-class families. Investments by entrepreneurs, bank loans, business liabilities and the livelihoods of employees could face uncertainty if the ban is enforced.
The association further noted that the Prime Minister’s 31-point state reform agenda includes a commitment—under point 26—to follow a health policy inspired by the UK’s NHS model. Under the United Kingdom’s long-term public health strategy, emphasis has been placed on harm reduction for smokers, support for smoking cessation, and the use of evidence-based alternatives such as vaping.
In that context, BENDSTA argued that a regulated framework for vape products would be more realistic than a complete prohibition.