Guyana bans recreational vaping products
President Irfaan Ali announced upcoming restrictions on the importation of most vaping products to protect public health and youth.Summary
President Irfaan Ali has announced that the Guyanese government will soon restrict the importation of all vaping products, except those specifically approved by relevant health authorities. This decision follows growing concerns from parents, educators, and community leaders regarding the unregulated sale and use of vapes, which are linked to respiratory and mental health issues.
While vapes used for therapeutic or medicinal purposes may still be permitted, they will require strict approval from the Health Minister, the National Tobacco Control Council, or the Tobacco Control Board. The President emphasized that the move aligns with international efforts to regulate these products, noting that the World Health Organisation has warned about the toxic substances in vapes and their impact on brain development in children and adolescents.
Dr. Ali highlighted that the goal is to prevent addiction and mitigate the long-term social and health consequences of early exposure to nicotine. The administration aims to prioritize national development and social protection by addressing the widespread impact of vaping on the younger generation.
(Source：Demerara Waves Online News- Guyana)
