Uzbekistan Senate Passes E-Cigarette Ban
Uzbekistan Bans Electronic Cigarettes Amid Rising Illegal Trade
In a significant legislative move, Uzbekistan’s Senate has ratified a new law prohibiting the circulation of electronic cigarettes throughout the country. This decision comes in response to increasing incidents of illegal importation and distribution of e-cigarettes, highlighting a growing public health concern.
The newly established regulations amend both the Criminal Code and the Administrative Responsibility Code. These changes impose stringent penalties for various activities related to e-cigarettes, including manufacturing, acquiring, storing, transporting, selling, importing, and exporting not only e-cigarettes but also their liquids and other electronic nicotine delivery systems, such as heated tobacco devices.
During discussions, Senate members emphasized the urgent need for enhanced regulation due to the rising prevalence of illicit tobacco products. The law aims to address the worrying trend of new nicotine delivery systems entering the market without appropriate oversight.
According to the Senate’s press service, the amendments focus on bolstering regulations concerning specific tobacco products and devices used for nicotine consumption. Lawmakers believe this initiative will help curb the illegal circulation of these newly developed tobacco alternatives.
The statute categorically bans the circulation of tobacco products, electronic nicotine delivery systems, and heated tobacco products across Uzbekistan, imposing both criminal and administrative penalties for non-compliance. However, there is an important provision that allows individuals to report their illegal actions without facing repercussions, provided they voluntarily surrender the prohibited items to the authorities.
The law, which received strong support from senators, will take effect following the President’s signature and official publication. This legislative action marks a critical step in Uzbekistan’s efforts to regulate tobacco consumption and protect public health.
