Guyana Bans All Vaping Product Imports

The Guyanese government has formally prohibited the importation of vaping devices, components, and related substances under a new directive aimed at curbing youth use. Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh signed the Customs Order on Wednesday, November 11, publishing the amendment to the Customs Act in the Official Gazette.

Government Action on Youth Health Risks

President Irfaan Ali confirmed that the policy directly addresses concerns raised by parents, educators, and community leaders regarding unregulated access to e-cigarettes in schools. He pointed to medical risks including nicotine dependency, developmental delays in adolescents, and respiratory damage.

“The lack of complete knowledge about these long-term effects should not be interpreted as proof of safety,” President Ali said, calling on communities to confront youth nicotine use. “We must protect our children, we must protect our schools, we must protect our society.”

Scope of Prohibited Vaping Imports

The customs restriction applies to a wide range of hardware and consumables, whether designed for nicotine, tobacco, or cannabis derivatives:

Vaping Hardware: Disposable devices, rechargeable e-cigarettes, vape pens, pod mods, box mods, electronic pipes, and dry herb vaporizers.
Substances and Formulations: E-liquids, oils, distillates, waxes, gels, and concentrates intended for use in vaporizers.
Parts and Components: Heating elements, atomizers, and modular components dedicated to vapor inhalation.

Medical and Research Exemptions

The amended Customs Act allows narrow exceptions. Importers may only bring restricted hardware or liquids into Guyana with prior written authorization from the Minister of Health, strictly limited to scientific research, professional training, or verified medical use.

The directive explicitly excludes conventional health equipment, such as medical nebulizers, room diffusers, and standard humidifiers that release mist into ambient air rather than directly into the lungs.

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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.