Health Minister Stresses Regulatory Control, Praises State-Level Restrictions
The Malaysian federal government is focusing on robust enforcement of existing laws to regulate vape products, with no immediate plans for a nationwide ban, Health Minister Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad confirmed. He highlighted the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 as the comprehensive legal framework guiding this approach.
Read moreSenate Approves Law Targeting E-Cigarettes, Liquids, Nicotine Pouches; Heated Tobacco Excluded from Ban
Following the approval of a significant new law by Uzbekistan’s Senate (Oliy Majlis) on April 30, aimed at curbing the circulation of certain nicotine products, clarity has emerged on exactly which items are targeted by the ban and which remain legally permissible. The legislation, now awaiting presidential signature, introduces substantial penalties for violations but specifically excludes popular heated tobacco products (HTPs) like IQOS from the outright ban, focusing instead on e-cigarettes (vapes) and related systems.
Read moreGovernment Cracks Down on Illegal Online Promotion and Sales of E-cigarettes
The Brazilian government has ordered major digital platforms, including YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Mercado Livre, and Enjoei, to immediately remove all content that promotes or sells electronic cigarettes (vapes) and related prohibited products. The notification, issued by the National Council to Combat Piracy (CNCP) under the National Consumer Secretariat (Senacon), gives the platforms a maximum of 48 hours to comply.
Read moreAdvocates Criticize WHO, Cite Risks of Illicit Markets
The Coalition of Asia Pacific Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates (CAPHRA) is urging Malaysian authorities to reject calls for vape bans and instead implement risk-proportionate regulations under the new Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852). CAPHRA argues that outright bans are counterproductive and risk fueling illicit markets, similar to experiences in Bhutan and South Africa.
Read moreThe Senate of Uzbekistan’s Oliy Majlis (Parliament) has approved significant legal amendments aimed at prohibiting the circulation of electronic cigarettes, liquids, and potentially heated tobacco systems within the country. The new law tightens requirements and establishes both administrative and criminal liability for handling these products illegally.
Read moreOfficials Claim Provincial Government Ignores 2019 Law
Council members in Tucumán, Argentina, have strongly criticized the provincial government for failing to enforce an existing law that prohibits the use of electronic cigarettes (vapes) in enclosed public spaces. Councilors José María Canelada and Gustavo Cobos argue the issue isn’t a lack of regulation, but a lack of action from the Executive Branch.
Read moreGroup Argues Grace Period Too Short, Questions State Authority
Vape traders in Terengganu are urging the state government to postpone the impending ban on the sale of e-cigarettes and vape products, scheduled to take effect on August 1st. Represented by the Terengganu branch of the Malay Vape Traders Association, they argue the ban will cause significant financial hardship and that the provided three-month grace period is inadequate.
Read morePossession Treated as Smuggling Offence Under Stricter Enforcement
Thailand is significantly escalating its enforcement against electronic cigarettes, with authorities now warning that simple possession of a vape device can be treated as a serious offence related to handling smuggled goods. Deputy Government Spokesperson Anukul Prueksa-anurak stated that users, including tourists, caught with vapes could be prosecuted for receiving or possessing contraband.
Read moreKedah may soon join other Malaysian states in prohibiting the sale of electronic cigarettes (vapes). Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor expressed his intention to emulate Terengganu’s recent decision and plans to propose the ban at the next state executive council meeting.
Read moreChief Minister Responds to Police Concerns Over Drug Abuse Links
The Penang state government is open to considering a ban on the sale of e-cigarettes and vape products, according to Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. However, he clarified that no formal discussions or decisions have yet been made regarding such a prohibition.
Read more