Kazakh leader, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, enacted a law prohibiting the sale, distribution, and promotion of smokeless tobacco products, including vapes, as reported by Akorda On April 19. The legislation is designed to enhance the accountability of healthcare professionals and implement systematic actions to deter and mitigate the proliferation of nicotine-infused substances among the youth.
Violations involving the sale and distribution of smokeless tobacco products, electronic consumption systems, and their associated flavourings and liquids will be subject to a penalty of up to 200 MCI (equivalent to KZT 738,400 or $1,654), or correctional labour of equal value, or up to 200 hours of community service, or incarceration for a maximum of 50 days.
The import and manufacture of these products will attract a fine of up to 2,000 MCI (equivalent to KZT 7.4 mn or $15,583), correctional labour of equal value, up to 600 hours of community service, or restriction of freedom for up to 2 years, or imprisonment for the same duration, with or without property confiscation.
The law will come into effect 60 days following its official publication.
Uzbekistan initiated a public discourse regarding proposed legislation that seeks to prohibit the use of electronic cigarettes (commonly known as vape devices) and heated tobacco products. The draft law, if enacted, would enforce a comprehensive ban on these products within the nation.
Opposition to this initiative emerged from the tobacco industry association Tamakisoz. They assert that the proposed ban would have significant repercussions on the state, businesses, and society as a whole.
Tamakisoz argues their stance based on purported scientific evidence, contending that vaping and heated tobacco are comparatively less harmful to health than traditional smoking methods. They specifically reference research conducted by reputable institutions such as the Department of Health in England, the Canadian government, and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These studies purportedly highlight the potential of these products in significantly mitigating the risks associated with smoking-related diseases.
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