BACKGROUND AND IMPLEMENTATION CHALLENGES: The growing popularity of E-cigarette (ENDS) and Heated Tobacco Products (HTPs) has posed significant challenges for tobacco control efforts globally, including in Vietnam. ENDS/HTPs have quickly become widespread, particularly among youth, driven by the tobacco industry's (TI) diverse marketing strategies and interference in ENDS/HTPs policy development. In response, joint efforts between NGOs and the government have been undertaken to counter TI influence and facilitate to the adoption of the ban on ENDS/HTPs in Vietnam, take effect in January 2025.
INTERVENTION OR RESPONSE: To address TI interference, a series of strategies were implemented: (1) Monitoring and documenting TI tactics to establish evidence; (2) Regularly informing policymakers of TI's interference; (3) Providing real-time technical support to the government and tobacco control partners for coordinated counteraction; (4) Strengthening media capacity and engaging journalists to expose TI’s false claims; (5) Mobilizing and expanding coalitions to include diverse stakeholders; and (6) Raising awareness among policymakers and the public about TI's interference and the importance of Article 5.3 of the WHO FCTC.
RESULTS AND IMPACT: Evidence base on TI interference was timely documented and disseminated, bolstering advocacy campaigns and coordinated responses. Policymakers became more aware of TI tactics, enabling stronger alignment in counterstrategies. Real-time technical support facilitated unified action among the government and tobacco control partners, while media engagement empowered journalists to expose misinformation and raise public awareness. Expanded coalitions, including non-health sectors, fostered a multi-sectoral response to TI influence. These efforts have contributed to support for the passage of the 2024 National Assembly Resolution banning the manufacture, trade, import, storage, transportation, and use of ENDS/HTPs in Vietnam.
CONCLUSIONS: This experience highlights the importance of sustained vigilance, thorough monitoring, multi-sector collaboration, and promoting the implementation of Article 5.3 of the WHO FCTC to safeguard public health policies from TI interference.