Myanmar Bans E-Cigarettes Nationwide: Import, Sale & Use Prohibited
Myanmar has enacted a comprehensive nationwide ban on all electronic cigarettes and related accessories, effective from February 18. The prohibition covers import, export, sale, possession, and use, driven by the Ministry of Health’s concerns over rising youth usage and public health risks.
Key Takeaways:
- Total Ban: Covers import, sale, possession, storage, and use of e-cigarettes and e-shisha.
- Legal Basis: Enforced under the Essential Supplies and Services Law.
- Health Rationale: Aimed at protecting youth from nicotine addiction and lung damage.
- Official Stance: Authorities refute claims that vaping is less dangerous than smoking.
Comprehensive Restrictions Under New Law
Issued under authorization from the Cabinet on February 18, the ban is enforced through the Essential Supplies and Services Law. It leaves no room for legal vaping, explicitly prohibiting:
- Importation and exportation
- Sale and distribution
- Possession, storage, and carrying
- Use and consumption of e-cigarettes and electronic shisha
Public Health Concerns Drive Policy
Kyaw Kan Kaung, Deputy Director General of the Department of Public Health, highlighted that the ban targets the rising trend of vaping among youth. He strongly countered the perception that e-cigarettes are a safer alternative to traditional smoking.
“Many also believe e-cigarettes are less dangerous than cigarettes, but that is completely wrong,” he stated, warning that these devices contain toxic substances, heavy metals, and highly addictive nicotine that can directly damage the lungs.
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