E-cigarette controls considered for safety

China is considering bringing electronic cigarettes under State management to ensure a standardized and well-regulated development of the popular smoking alternative, according to an official of the State Tobacco Monopoly Administration.

Li Baojiang, deputy director of the administration's economic research institute told China Daily there is currently a lack of regulation and standards for e-cigarettes across the nation, which could affect public health. He cited problem products as well as potential government revenue.

"Regulating e-cigarettes, like traditional tobacco products under the State monopoly, is highly feasible. And that helps with consumer safety and rights, product quality control and the government coffers," he said.