Uzbekistan considers ban on electronic cigarettes

Uzbekistan is considering a ban on the storage, transportation, or sale of certain tobacco products and nicotine consumption devices, including electronic cigarettes. This is outlined in the draft law "On Amendments and Addenda to Certain Legislative Acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan on the Prohibition of the Turnover of Certain Types of Tobacco Products, Tobacco and Nicotine Consumption Devices, Including Electronic Cigarettes, and on Establishing Liability," which has been submitted for discussion in the Oliy Majlis.

The initiators of the draft law highlight a growing issue in Uzbekistan: the increasing illegal import and circulation of “modern” and “innovative” tobacco and nicotine products. These include nicotine delivery devices, electronic cigarettes, liquids for them, and heated tobacco products. Furthermore, the consumption of these products, especially among young people, has also been on the rise.

The proposed legislation calls for the establishment of both administrative and criminal liability for those involved in the import or export of electronic cigarettes into Uzbekistan.

It is worth noting that neighboring Kazakhstan has already enacted a law, effective from June 20, 2024, that prohibits the import, sale, and advertising of electronic cigarettes and various tobacco products. Similarly, in November 2024, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov signed a law aimed at enhancing health protections against the harmful effects of tobacco and nicotine. This law, adopted by the Jogorku Kenesh on October 23, 2024, prohibits the import, sale, and use of electronic cigarettes in Kyrgyzstan.