New Zealand Reverses World-First Tobacco Bans

New Zealand's government is set to repeal a world-first law banning tobacco sales for future generations, which would have implemented the toughest anti-tobacco rules in the world. The decision to scrap the law without seeking public comment has drawn criticism over its likely impact on health outcomes, particularly among Maori and Pasifika populations with higher smoking rates. The government plans to take a different regulatory approach to discourage smoking and reduce harm, including tightening regulations on vaping.