Germany’s e-cigarette crackdown could fuel a dangerous black market, experts warn
The World Vapers’ Alliance (WVA) has raised alarms over the spread of Görke, a hazardous synthetic drug in Germany. The group warns that heavy-handed regulations on e-cigarettes could lead to similar dangers by pushing products into unregulated markets. Director Michael Landl stressed that bans rarely eliminate demand but instead fuel illegal trade.
The WVA highlighted Germany’s recent steps toward legalising cannabis as a positive move. However, it cautioned against repeating past errors with e-cigarettes. According to the organisation, overly strict rules—like flavour bans—would drive consumers to black markets, where safety and age controls vanish.
Regulation of e-cigarettes in Germany falls under the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM), along with the health and agriculture ministries. These bodies enforce the Tobacco Products Act, which governs sales and processing. The WVA argues that sensible, evidence-based policies are needed to ensure adult smokers can access safer alternatives.
Landl pointed to Görke as proof that prohibition backfires. He warned that banning e-cigarette flavours or imposing outright restrictions would replicate the same risks. Without legal oversight, the WVA claims, consumers face greater harm from untested, illicit products.
The WVA urges German policymakers to adopt balanced e-cigarette regulations. It calls for measures that prioritise harm reduction without creating black-market demand. The group insists that proportionate rules—not bans—are the best way to protect public health.
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