Tag Archive for: Panama

Panama’s Ministry of Health Regulates Sale and Use of E-Cigarettes

New Resolution Prohibits Vaping in Public Spaces and Restricts Advertising

The Panamanian Ministry of Health (Minsa) has introduced new regulations on the sale, use, and advertising of electronic cigarettes, also known as vapes, as well as heated tobacco and oral nicotine products in Panama. The measures, outlined in Resolution No. 146 of January 31, 2025, and published in the Official Gazette on Thursday, February 13, aim to protect public health and minimize exposure to harmful vapors.

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Panama’s Supreme Court Declares E-Cigarette Ban Unconstitutional

In a unanimous decision, Panama’s Supreme Court of Justice (CSJ) has declared Law 315 of June 30, 2022, which prohibited the use, import, and commercialization of electronic cigarettes, tobacco vaporizers, and other similar devices with or without nicotine, unconstitutional. The ruling, delivered by Justice Olmedo Arrocha, found that the law violated Article 170 of the Constitution.

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Panama: Surge in Smuggled E-Cigarettes

Panama is currently facing a surge in the smuggling of e-cigarettes and other non-combustible devices, despite the existence of Law 315, which bans their sale and distribution. These products remain widely available and easily accessible in the country, indicating a growing demand. This revelation comes from an investigation conducted by research firm Povaddo, titled “Prevention of Illicit Trade: Non-combustible Alternatives in Panama,” carried out from November 19 to December 23, 2022. Interestingly, Panama is also preparing to host the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (COP10) and the third session of the Meeting of the Parties (MOP3) on the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products, highlighting the significance of this issue.

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Panama Enacts Law Banning Use, Import, and Sale of E-Cigarettes

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On June 30, 2022, Panamanian President Laurentino Cortizo signed into law a bill that prohibits the use, import, and commercialization of electronic nicotine delivery systems, e-cigarettes, vaporizers, tobacco heaters, and other similar devices, with or without nicotine, in Panama. The law, known as Law 315, was initially approved by the National Assembly on March 19, 2020, but was vetoed by the President.

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