BC retailers urge Premier to reverse NRT restrictions

Local retailers across British Columbia are urging Premier Eby to reconsider recent regulations that limit the sale of nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) in convenience stores. The new policy, implemented in February 2024, restricts NRTs to pharmacies, driving consumers towards unregulated black-market sellers. The World Health Organization endorses NRTs as effective smoking cessation tools.

Sara MacIntyre, VP Western Canada for the Convenience Industry Council of Canada, highlighted the impact on community safety and small businesses. “[This policy is] driving consumers to unregulated black-market products, at the expense of local businesses,” MacIntyre said. BC convenience retailers, known for responsibly selling age-gated products, feel unjustly targeted. They call for evidence-based policies that support local businesses and prevent youth access to harmful products.