As previously reported by Spot, the Oliy Majlis has begun reviewing a law to ban vapes in Uzbekistan. Administrative and criminal liability is planned for the importation or sale of electronic cigarettes.
The ban on the circulation of electronic cigarettes will affect vapes but will not apply to tobacco heating systems. This was announced on January 7 by Health Minister Asilbek Khudayarov during a meeting of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis.
In response to a question from a deputy regarding electronic cigarettes brought in by tourists, the Health Minister stated that foreigners would be informed about the ban and that tobacco products would be confiscated at the border. The official also made a distinction between vapes and tobacco heating systems.
“We are talking about two types of electronic cigarettes. We conducted a study by purchasing and comparing the products. Most self-respecting users of electronic cigarettes, who have the financial means, use tobacco heating systems instead of matches or lighters. Initially, we are not imposing a ban on them. Mainly, we are focusing on artificial electronic cigarettes containing flavorings and nicotine taste, which are most commonly used among the youth,” Khudayarov stated.
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Customs Committee, and embassies, will carry out explanatory work with foreign tourists.
Furthermore, the Health Minister acknowledged that the proposed penalties for violations of the electronic cigarette ban are high, but they will range from “light to severe.” Deputy Speaker of the lower house of the Oliy Majlis, Rahim Hakimov, suggested including a provision for exemption from administrative liability in cases of self-reporting during the second reading, to ensure “no impact on the tourism potential.”
Leader of the "Milliy Tiklanish" party, Alisher Kadirov, stated that in the previous session, his faction proposed banning the circulation of electronic cigarettes, but the initiative was not supported by the deputies. As arguments for the ban on vapes, he cited damage to the DNA structure of smokers, which could lead to congenital diseases among newborns.
Kadirov also warned about “lobbyists” who would attempt to influence the consideration of the bill during the second reading, similar to what occurred in the previous session with the "Milliy Tiklanish" proposal.
As a result, 133 deputies voted in favor of adopting the bill in the first reading. Three voted against, one abstained, and two did not vote.
Earlier, Spot reported that fines for late applications for housing registration would be reduced.