Chile Implements New Law Regulating E-Cigarettes and Vapes
Restrictions on Sales to Minors, Public Use, Advertising, and Packaging Take Effect
Starting Tuesday, May 20th, Chile has enacted a new comprehensive law, Ley 21.642, to regulate the sale, consumption, and advertising of electronic cigarettes, commonly known as vapes, including both nicotine and non-nicotine products. This legislation aims to establish clear limits to protect public health, particularly that of young people.
A key provision of the new law is a total ban on the sale of vape products to individuals under 18 years of age, an area previously unregulated. Furthermore, the use of e-cigarettes is now restricted in enclosed public places, aligning vaping regulations with existing laws for traditional cigarettes. Celso Muñiz from the Ministry of Health’s Tobacco Control Office emphasized that the law seeks to set clear boundaries rather than prohibit the products entirely.
Strict limitations on advertising and product display are also imposed. Promotion is only permitted in physical formats inside points of sale, must not be visible from outside, and cannot be near products intended for minors. Advertising is also banned within a 400-meter radius of educational institutions and health centers. Vape packaging must now mandatorily display the warning: “Electronic nicotine delivery systems are potentially addictive. Exclusive sale for over 18s,” along with details of components and risks.
The Ministry of Health and Regional Ministerial Secretariats (Seremi) will oversee enforcement, with penalties including fines, product seizures, and business closures. Fines will vary by infraction; for example, vaping in educational facilities will incur a minimum fine of 137,000 pesos (approx. 2 UTM), while failing to include health warnings on packaging could result in fines up to 34 million pesos (approx. 500 UTM).
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