Deputy Health Minister Defends Support for Smokeless Nicotine Products
The Deputy Minister of Health of New Zealand has once again sparked intense debate in the parliamentary health committee for supporting the sale of nicotine-containing and smokeless tobacco products. The government previously agreed in principle to the launch of such products, but they must meet safety standards and have measures in place to protect teenagers. Opposition lawmakers have accused the policy of potentially leading young people into a new form of nicotine addiction.
Government’s Conditional Approval Sparks Political Clash
Key Points Summary
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New Zealand’s Deputy Minister of Health. Casey Costello advocates for the legalisation of smokeless nicotine products.
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Opposition lawmakers criticise this move, arguing it might lead to the development of new addictions among teenagers.
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The government previously approved the sale of such products in principle, subject to safety and regulatory standards.
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Costello emphasises harm reduction strategies, citing Australia’s stricter regulations as a cautionary example.
Parliamentary Health Committee Questions Minister’s Position
December 5, 2025. According to Radio New Zealand (RNZ). New Zealand’s Deputy Minister of Health, Casey Costello, was questioned again by the opposition in the Parliament’s Health Committee on Wednesday for supporting the sale of oral tobacco and nicotine products.
Cabinet Moves to Allow Smoke-Free Alternatives Under Strict Rules
In 2024, the New Zealand Cabinet agreed in principle to allow the sale of smoke-free products (such as Swedish snuff and nicotine pouches), provided that these products meet safety standards and include regulatory safeguards to prevent youth access.
Costello Rejects Industry Links, Stresses Harm Reduction Goal
Costello denied accusations of being closely associated with the tobacco industry, emphasising that her goal remains to achieve the “2025 Smoke-Free Goal.” She argued that current rules are inconsistent: vapes are more tightly regulated than traditional tobacco. This could unintentionally push people back to smoking.
Opposition Warns of Rising Youth Nicotine Addiction
Labour Party health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall challenged the proposal, questioning the wisdom of introducing new nicotine products that could increase addiction among young people.
Debate Over Alternatives for Adult Smokers
Costello defended the policy by stating that delayed regulation of vapes contributed to earlier youth uptake and said alternative products are needed for older smokers who struggle to quit.
International Comparisons Raised in Policy Debate
Costello noted that only two countries have lower smoking rates than New Zealand, and both allow the use of alternative nicotine products.
Experts Call for Stronger Evidence Before Market Approval
Ayesha Verrall asked whether expert advice would be followed, requiring proof that these products are safer than traditional tobacco and help with smoking cessation before being approved. Costello replied that all expert recommendations would be carefully assessed.
Public Health Researchers Warn of Market and Youth Risks
Jude Ball, a tobacco control researcher at the University of Otago, cautioned that while black-market risks exist. Introducing new addictive products would not advance a smoke-free society. She added that there is no clear evidence that oral nicotine products help people quit and warned that such products are being marketed to young people.
Concerns Grow Over Tobacco Industry Targeting Youth
Ball further warned that tobacco companies are actively promoting new products to regain market share and expand their consumer base among teenagers.
