North Sumatra to Ban Vape Sales and Use by Late November 2026

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution confirmed that the provincial government will enact a regional regulation banning the trade and use of electronic cigarettes by late November 2026. The policy revision targets the circulation of vaping hardware and liquids while offering transitional financing to affected retail merchants.

Regional Regulation to Prohibit Vape Trade and Use

Speaking at a student event in Medan, Nasution stated that the ban will be codified through a revision to Regional Regulation No. 1 of 2019 regarding narcotics, psychotropics, and addictive substances. The finalized draft is scheduled for approval alongside the North Sumatra Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD).

“Vapes will no longer be permitted for use, let alone traded in the North Sumatra region,” Nasution said, confirming that the ban applies to open systems, pods, and related electronic vapor products.

Financial Relief for Displaced Retailers

Addressing concerns raised by student representatives regarding the economic fate of business owners, Nasution promised state-backed financial aid for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) currently operating legal vape shops.

The provincial administration is collaborating with financial institutions, including Bank Sumut and Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI), to establish targeted credit programs. Nasution noted that the government is evaluating options to absorb or subsidize loan interest rates, allowing retailers to pivot into other commercial sectors without defaulting on existing commitments.

“We will prepare special credit lines from Bank Sumut for affected MSME sellers so that when the policy takes effect, citizens already relying on this sector for their livelihood do not become victims,” Nasution explained.

Mounting National Scrutiny and Religious Rulings

The provincial ban aligns with broader national measures targeting electronic cigarettes. National Police Chief General Suyudi recently issued instructions prohibiting police personnel nationwide from using vapes following reports that illicit drug networks were using vape liquids to distribute narcotics. Several regional commands have already restricted vaping inside police compounds.

The regulatory pressure intensified on November 6, 2026, when the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) issued Fatwa No. 131 of 2026. The religious decree officially declared the production, commercial sale, and consumption of electronic cigarettes to be forbidden (haram) under Islamic law.

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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.