Ministers Approve Minimum Prices for Tobacco and Vape Products
The Kyrgyzstan government has recently approved minimum prices for tobacco products and vapes in an effort to improve public health and boost the state budget. The resolution, signed by the Cabinet of Ministers, sets the following minimum prices effective from January 1, 2025:
– A pack of cigarettes (20 pieces) – 110 soms
– A pack of sticks (IQOS) – 110 soms
– Disposable electronic cigarettes (per piece) – from 350 soms
– Electronic nicotine delivery system, vapes (per piece) – 1,400 soms
Additionally, prices for cigarettes and sticks will increase by 10 soms per pack starting from 2026, reaching a minimum price of 120 soms.
Furthermore, the import and use of electronic cigarettes and vapes will be prohibited from July 1, 2025, following the signing of the corresponding law by the president. Violators of the ban will face hefty fines, with individuals facing fines of 100 and 200 calculated rates for use and sale, respectively. The fines for legal entities are even higher, at 600 and 650 calculated rates.
Illegal import of electronic cigarettes will also be considered a criminal offense. Those caught importing significant quantities may face correctional labor for up to a year or fines ranging from 1,000 to 1,200 calculated rates. For larger volumes, the fine increases to 2,000 calculated rates, with the possibility of imprisonment for up to two years.
These measures are aimed at curbing the use of tobacco products and vapes in Kyrgyzstan, promoting public health and reducing the burden on the state budget.
