Cook Islands Bans Vaping, Tobacco Sales Under New Law

The Cook Islands has taken a significant step towards promoting public health by enacting the Tobacco Products Control Amendment Act 2024. This new legislation introduces a range of measures aimed at curbing the use of tobacco and vaping products in the country.

Key Provisions of the Act

The Tobacco Products Control Amendment Act 2024 includes several key provisions that will have a significant impact on the tobacco and vaping industry in the Cook Islands:

The legal age for purchasing tobacco products has been raised from 18 to 21 years.
Smoking in nearly all public places, including bars, restaurants, workplaces, transportation, and educational institutions, is now prohibited, with limited exceptions for unenclosed spaces.
The manufacture, importation, sale, distribution, and advertising of imitation tobacco products, such as e-cigarettes and vapes, are now banned in the Cook Islands.
Importers, distributors, and sellers of tobacco products must hold a current license and comply with all license conditions.
Internet sales of tobacco products are prohibited, except for business-to-business transactions between importers and distributors.
Tobacco product displays are banned, and violators face fines of up to $1,000 or one month imprisonment for individuals, and up to $10,000 plus an additional $1,000 per day for ongoing offenses for businesses.

Ministry of Health Approves Tobacco Retailer Applications

Te Marae Ora Ministry of Health has approved 37 out of the 43 applications received for selling tobacco in the Cook Islands. The successful applicants can start selling tobacco from August 1, 2024, under the new Act. Secretary for Health Bob Williams stated that six of these applications are pending approval pending further information.

Personal Use Exemption for Travelers

Cook Islands residents who have lived outside the country for the last six months and continue to do so can bring in one vaping device and up to 30 milliliters of liquid for personal use. However, they are not allowed to sell or distribute these products.

Penalties for Violations

The Act imposes strict penalties for violations. Manufacturing tobacco products can result in a fine of $100,000 or imprisonment not exceeding three months. Breaching internet sales restrictions can lead to a fine of up to $10,000 or three months imprisonment for individuals, and up to $100,000 plus an additional $10,000 per day for ongoing offenses for businesses.

As the Cook Islands takes decisive action to protect public health and reduce the harm caused by tobacco and vaping products, the Tobacco Products Control Amendment Act 2024 serves as a strong foundation for achieving these goals.

News source: TMO approves nearly 90% of tobacco vendor applications

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Matthew Ma

Marketing at Ecigator

With over a decade of experience in the e-cigarette industry, Matthew Ma is a seasoned expert in both the manufacturing and usage aspects of vaping products. His extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of the intricacies and evolving dynamics of e-cigarettes.