Uzbekistan has officially instituted a complete ban on the circulation of electronic nicotine delivery systems (vapes) and e-cigarettes. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed the law, which amends existing tobacco regulations to prohibit the import, production, sale, purchase, storage, transport, and use of these products and their liquids. The ban aims to curb the rising popularity of vaping among teenagers and youth.
The new legislation introduces severe penalties for violations. Individuals found guilty of manufacturing, distributing, or storing these products can face significant fines ranging from 123.6 to 206 million soums (300-500 basic calculation units). More drastically, the law provides for criminal liability, including correctional labor for two to three years, restriction of liberty, or imprisonment for a term of three to five years. Criminal charges apply particularly for large-scale offenses or repeat violations after administrative penalties.
While the law has been signed, a transition period is in place, with the full ban and sanctions set to take effect in February 2026, three months after official publication. The legislation also includes a provision exempting citizens who voluntarily surrender their e-cigarettes to law enforcement. Health Minister Asilbek Khudayarov clarified that the ban specifically targets "artificial" flavored vapes popular with youth, while heated tobacco systems currently face no new restrictions. Authorities will also confiscate prohibited products from tourists at the border.
