French vejpshoppes now qualify as "general interest" shops. This means they can stay open despite the lockdown in hard-hit France. This was announced by several vejp-related organizations in the country.
"The authorities acted swiftly after we warned about the risks of closing vejp shops during the COVID-19 crisis. We sincerely thank the Minister of Health for listening" writes the non-profit vejp association #Sovape on its website.
Vejpkollen has previously reported on the gloomy situation for French vejpshoppar in France, which has been hit hard by the coronavirus. And just last week, it looked like e-cigarette shops would have to close during the ban in the country.
But after the French Parliament voted on the issue, it is now clear that this will not be the case. Roadside shops are now considered to have a "public interest" and are allowed to remain open, but under strict hygiene guidelines.
According to the trade association FIVAPE this is not just a way to help ex-smokers stay away from smoking. It is a recognition, from the highest level, that vejping is important for public health in France
"For years, representatives of the medical and nursing professions have argued that vejpning is an excellent tool to combat smoking. Today, the government has also officially taken the same position. We are pleased about this" swrites the organization on its website.
Industry organizations FIVAPE organizes 700 of the country's vejpshoppers and according to the association #sovape there are currently 3 million vejpers in France.
In the past, they have also Italian authorities classified vejpshops as important to the public. This is after both organizations and doctors explained to the government that e-cigarettes effectively keep ex-smokers away from cigarettes. Cigarette smoking is implied in a new study links to the more severe cases of CIVID-19 in Italy and China.
