TAIPEI – Taiwan is preparing to announce its first authorization of a heated tobacco product, nearly two years after amendments to the Tobacco Hazards Prevention Act were made in March 2023. The revised law would permit the legalization of heated tobacco products on a case‐by‐case basis.

Health Promotion Agency (HPA) Director-General Wu Chao-Chun stated, “The amended tobacco act allows a path to legalization for heated tobacco products,” in a press release. He added that 11 tobacco manufacturers have submitted claims to the HPA, with six having completed the documentation assessment phase.

The second phase, involving product testing, is expected to take six months. One manufacturer’s application may see its result announced as early as next month. If approved, the product will be authorized for commercialization with the required labeling and health warnings. Manufacturers whose products do not pass the assessment may re-submit their documentation or seek an administrative remedy.

Wu noted that application results will be announced on a staggered schedule, depending on the completion of the documentation phase and the rectification of any deficiencies.

HPA Tobacco Control Division head Lo Su-Ying explained that the agency’s terminology—“health risk assessment”—reflects its goal of scientifically evaluating a product’s public health impact.

Stakeholders in the nicotine industry have stated that they are closely monitoring the new developments as they could shape the future market for heated tobacco products in Taiwan.