TAIPEI, March 25, 2026 –Tobacco control remains a major global public health priority. In response to the rapid evolution of new and emerging nicotine and tobacco products, the Health Promotion Administration (HPA) of the Ministry of Health and Welfare convened an international conference in Taipei today. Experts and representatives from APEC economies exchanged strategic insights on regulatory frameworks, tobacco control policies, and public health responses. Through this event, Taiwan seeks to further deepen Asia-Pacific cooperation and advance the shared goal of achieving smoke-free environments.
HPA Collaborates with APEC to Safeguard Public Health across the Asia-Pacific Region
Held at the Chang Yung-Fa Foundation International Convention Center, the conference brought together participants from 11 APEC economies: Australia, Canada, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Peru, Singapore, Thailand, the United States, and Taiwan. Participants shared best practices and discussed proactive strategies to address the proliferation of new and emerging products.
Conference Highlights Emerging Tobacco Products, Policy Regulation, and Innovative Cessation Services
The conference specially invited Prof. Becky Freeman from the University of Sydney to share the latest global trends in tobacco control. Discussions highlighted public health issues stemming from the rapid development of new nicotine and tobacco products, examining the management and regulatory strategies of various economies regarding emerging products such as e-cigarettes. Furthermore, the conference addressed the challenges of nicotine and tobacco products marketing on the internet and social media, while exploring innovative smoking cessation services, including integrated care models and next-generation programs.
Experts and Economy Representatives Share Tobacco Control Policies and Practical Experience
The conference featured a prominent lineup of distinguished international experts, including Prof. Coral Gartner of The University of Queensland, Australia; Ms. Alice Ong of the Health Promotion Board, Singapore; Prof. Pamela Ling of the University of California, San Francisco, the United States; Prof. Jonine Jancey of Curtin University, Australia; Prof. Shu-Hong Zhu of the University of California San Diego, the United States; and Prof. Min Kyung Lim of Inha University, Korea. Representatives from Peru, Malaysia, Canada, Thailand, Japan, Korea, and Indonesia also shared their respective tobacco control policies and practical strategies.
Taiwan Continues Strengthening Tobacco Control Laws to Address Emerging Nicotine and Tobacco Product Challenges
Taiwan has achieved a steady decline in adult smoking prevalence since the implementation of the Tobacco Hazards Prevention Act in 1997. In response to the rapid rise of e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and nicotine pouches, Taiwan amended the Act in 2023 to strengthen regulation. The HPA continues to collaborate with local health bureaus and relevant ministries to enforce the law, combat illegal products, and expand accessible smoking cessation services.
Sharing Taiwan’s Tobacco Control Achievements and Advancing Toward a Tobacco-Free Environment
The HPA stated that the conference showcased Taiwan’s achievements, strengthened partnerships with APEC economies, and promoted regional cooperation in public health. Taiwan will continue to align with international standards and work toward a healthier, tobacco-free future.