Manila: Vietnam has taken a decisive step to safeguard public health by banning vaping and heated tobacco products, a move welcomed by global health leaders. Vietnam's National Assembly approved on Saturday a comprehensive ban on e-cigarettes, including their production, sale, import, storage, transportation, and use, starting in 2025. According to Philippines News Agency, World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised Vietnam's action, posting on X: "Congratulations, Vietnam, on making this bold decision to protect your citizens, especially the young ones, from vaping and heated tobacco products." The ban comes as global concerns grow over the popularity of e-cigarettes and similar devices, which are often marketed as safer alternatives to traditional smoking. Public health experts have warned about their potential to introduce nicotine addiction to a new generation, particularly among teenagers. Vietnam's decision aims at curbing the rising use of alternative tobacco p roducts among young people, underscoring the country's commitment to tackling health risks associated with smoking. The country has a longstanding history of implementing stringent anti-smoking policies. With this ban, it joins a growing list of nations taking proactive measures to regulate or prohibit the use of alternative tobacco products, signaling a strong stance on public health priorities.