The Health Ministry in Uzbekistan has prepared a draft law that would prohibit the import and sale of electronic cigarettes and tobacco heating systems, reports Kun.uz.

The proposal comes as the number of young people and children using e-cigarettes has increased 80-fold between 2021 and 2023 compared to the three-year span before.
The ban, which would also apply to hookahs, would introduce administrative and criminal liability for the import, manufacture, purchase, storage, transportation, and distribution of “prohibited tobacco products and devices for consuming tobacco,” according to Kun.uz.
For first time offenders a fine of UZS 17 to 34 million (USD 1,337 to 2.675) would be issued and the items in question confiscated, although anyone voluntarily surrendering the items would not be punished. Repeat offenders would face fines of UZS 68 to 136 million (USD 5,350 to 10,700) and penalties including up to 5 years in prison. Those importing and selling larger amounts of the forbidden items as part of an organized group would face a prison term of 7 to 12 years.
According to Kun.uz the draft law can be viewed on the government’s only portal and discussions will last until 18 April.