In a move to curb the rising popularity of e-cigarettes among schoolchildren, the parliaments of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan are considering a complete ban on these devices. The proposal comes amid growing concerns about the health risks associated with vaping, Sputnik reports.
In Kyrgyzstan, the parliament has proposed to ban the import, sale, and use of electronic cigarettes and vapes. The use of these devices, considered by many as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, has seen a significant increase among schoolchildren. Prior to the advent of e-cigarettes, the prevalence of smoking among young people had been declining for a decade.
The proposed legislation in Kyrgyzstan includes imposing a fine of 40,000 soms (about $448) for smoking e-cigarettes, and fines ranging from 50,000 to 60,000 soms ($560-$672) for selling them.
Kazakhstan Approves Vaping Ban
Two weeks ago, Kazakhstan’s parliament approved a complete ban on vaping. The new law provides for imprisonment of up to 50 days for selling e-cigarettes, and up to 2 years for importing and distributing them.
Turkmenistan’s Tobacco-Free Initiative
In Turkmenistan, the sale of electronic cigarettes is already prohibited. Despite the ban, the use of e-cigarettes in the country increased before authorities could bring the situation under control. Turkmenistan’s authorities have long aimed to achieve the status of a completely tobacco-free state. Cigarettes are constantly in short supply and very expensive. In 2020, there were reports that women were denied the sale of cigarettes. At the end of 2022, the legislation was officially amended to raise the minimum age for purchasing cigarettes from 18 to 21 years.
Tajikistan and Uzbekistan’s Stance on E-Cigarettes
In Tajikistan, e-cigarettes are subject to regulation. The sale, import, export, and production of e-cigarettes, including nicotine-containing and nicotine-free vaping products, are allowed subject to several restrictions.
Meanwhile, in Uzbekistan, from 26th August 2023, nicotine-containing and nicotine-free vaping products are subject to regulation. Age restrictions for vaping products are set for under-21s. The nicotine cap is 20 mg/ml. Advertising is prohibited. An excise tax rate of UZS 605 ($0.050) per ml applies.
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