China mulls legislation to regulate electronic cigarettes

China's National Health Commission (NHC) plans to regulate electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) through legislation in a bid to address critical concerns over the product's harmful effects.

[File Photo: IC]

Currently, the NHC has been conducting joint research with other relevant departments on the issue, said Mao Qunan, head of the planning department of NHC at a press conference held on Monday.

Studies have shown the aerosol generated by e-cigarettes contains toxic elements, and various additives in the products pose health risks to the users, said Mao.

Besides, the ambiguous labeling of nicotine content in e-cigarettes could result in an overdose of the unhealthy chemical, along with other potential hazards such as battery explosion, liquid leaking and burning, he said.