South Africa is experiencing troubling trends in both cigarette smoking and vaping among its youth.Cigarette smoking prevalence has risen from below 20% in 2010 to roughly 24% in 2021, reversing previous gains in tobacco control.

Meanwhile, vaping has become widespread among high school learners, with a 2024 study finding that nearly 17% of students vape regularly, many showing signs of strong nicotine dependence.

The situation is exacerbated by outdated legislation: the Tobacco Products Control Act, last amended in 2008, fails to address modern marketing tactics, and e-cigarettes largely escape regulation.Aggressive advertising on social media and at retail outlets targets adolescents, creating a new generation of nicotine users.

Price, a powerful tool for reducing smoking among young people, has not increased beyond inflation for over fifteen years, while illicit cigarette sales remain high.Government initiatives like the proposed Track-and-Trace system may help curb illegal sales, but more decisive action is needed.

Experts argue that without strong regulatory measures and effective public health policies, South Africans will continue to face a rising burden of addiction, premature deaths, and strain on the healthcare system.