Kuwait Bans Vape and Cigarette Sales to Under-21s Starting 2027

Kuwait’s Ministry of Health has established a regulatory framework that bans the sale of tobacco and nicotine products to anyone under the age of 21. Issued by Health Minister Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadhi under Ministerial Resolution No. 237 of 2026, the law takes effect on January 1, 2027, to curb youth nicotine consumption.

The resolution covers traditional tobacco products alongside electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco devices, and other nicotine delivery systems. The rules align with Kuwait’s national legislation and its international commitments under the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.

Age Verification and Retail Restrictions

Under the new mandate, retailers must verify a customer’s age using their civil ID or another officially approved method before completing any transaction. Licensed outlets must display warning signs in both Arabic and English stating the under-21 sales ban.

The law prohibits the sale, display, or trade of tobacco and nicotine products in educational institutions, including nurseries, schools, and universities. Sales are also barred in hospitals, government offices, sports clubs, grocery stores, and mobile carts.

Ban on Online Sales and Advertising

To limit youth access, the resolution bans the sale and distribution of regulated products through websites, mobile applications, social media platforms, and delivery services.

Direct and indirect marketing is prohibited across all media channels. This restriction covers traditional advertising, billboards, and digital content created by social media influencers. Companies cannot distribute free samples, offer promotional discounts, or sponsor cultural or sporting events using tobacco branding.

Product Registration and Child-Targeted Bans

All tobacco and nicotine delivery systems must obtain registration and approval from the Ministry of Health before entering the market. Manufacturers must disclose ingredients, nicotine concentrations, and country of origin.

The law bans products designed to appeal to minors, such as those featuring cartoon characters, toy images, or packaging resembling sweets. Unregistered nicotine pouches and oral nicotine products not classified as medicines are also prohibited.

Additionally, the use of descriptive terms like “less harmful,” “mild,” or “low tar” is banned to prevent misleading consumers about health risks.

Public Space Restrictions and Media Controls

E-cigarettes and heated tobacco products will face the same restrictions as traditional cigarettes. Vaping is banned in enclosed public spaces where smoking is already prohibited.

Media content depicting smoking or vaping will face monitoring. If a smoking scene is deemed necessary for artistic reasons, a health warning explaining the dangers of nicotine must appear on screen simultaneously.

Enforcement and Penalties

The Ministry of Health will collaborate with the Environment Public Authority, Environmental Police, and the General Administration of Customs to enforce the rules. Authorities have the power to block non-compliant websites, seize illegal imports, and withdraw products from circulation. Violators will face penalties prescribed under Kuwait’s existing national laws.

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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.