Pakistan Bill Would Treat Vape Like Cigarettes - Tobacco Reporter
A Pakistan bill aims to regulate vapes like cigarettes, restricting sales, marketing, and usage to curb youth vaping.Summary
Pakistan’s Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services has approved a bill to regulate Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS), effectively treating vapes similarly to traditional cigarettes. The bill seeks to address the growing issue of youth vaping, particularly in Islamabad, by imposing strict controls on the import, sale, marketing, and use of e-cigarettes. Key provisions include a ban on sales within 50 meters of schools and colleges, a minimum purchase age of 18, and prohibitions on vape use in public transport, government buildings, and shared spaces. The legislation also mandates product standards like nicotine caps of 40 mg/ml, child-resistant packaging, health warnings, and age verification for online sales. Penalties for violations range from fines of up to Rs 50,000 ($175) for first offenses, with increased sanctions for repeat offenses and smuggling. The bill is currently undergoing inter-ministerial review before being formally considered by the Senate.
(Source：Tobacco Reporter)
