A draft law proposing a ban on the circulation of e-cigarettes in Uzbekistan was discussed by deputies in the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis on January 6, 2024. The proposed law aims to prohibit the production, storage, transportation, transfer, and import of e-cigarettes and other nicotine-consumption devices within the country.
The draft legislation includes provisions for administrative and criminal liability for those involved in the import or export of electronic tobacco products.
Deputies expressed concern over the illegal importation and increasing use of e-cigarettes, particularly among the youth in Uzbekistan.
Alisher Kadyrov, leader of the National Revival Democratic Party (Milliy Tiklanish), voiced strong support for the ban, stating, “If such cigarettes, which seriously affect the nation’s gene pool, are banned in 32 countries, why shouldn’t we restrict them? Until e-cigarettes are strictly prohibited, we will continue opposing their circulation.”
The faction of Milliy Tiklanish unanimously supported the proposal during its first reading.
This latest proposal follows an earlier draft law introduced by the Ministry of Health in April 2024, which also sought to prohibit the import and sale of e-cigarettes, vaping devices, and tobacco heating systems, with penalties for violations.
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