Belarus to Tighten Vape Regulations, Raise Excise Taxes in 2026

Key Points

• Legislation: Licensing requirements for vape importers and retailers; restrictions on advertising and online sales.
• Youth Protection: Sales and delivery of vapes to minors will be strictly prohibited.
• Fiscal Policy: Excise taxes on e-cigarettes and vape liquids to increase by 20% from 2026.
• Market Impact: Heated-tobacco products and vapes will be added to the excise list.
• Government View: The measures aim to protect public health and reduce illegal trade.

2Firsts — November 19, 2025 — According to the state-run Belarusian television channel ONT, Belarus is preparing new legislation to regulate the electronic cigarette market, as lawmakers voice alarm over the wide availability of nicotine products and the growing volume of illicit vape sales.

Yelena Khilya, a member of the House of Representatives, said the bill aims to bring order to the sector rather than impose a full ban, which she warned could push production underground.

“We don’t need a symbolic ban — we need effective regulation,” Khilya said.

Under the proposed law:

• Only licensed companies will be allowed to import and sell vape products.
• Advertising, product displays, and online sales will be tightly restricted.
• Sales without excise stamps or licenses will be outlawed.
• All forms of sales and delivery to minors, including online shipping, will be banned.

Finance Minister Yury Seliverstov previously announced plans to raise excise taxes on vapes and nicotine liquids by 20% in 2026 to gradually align them with cigarette tax rates. Electronic smoking systems and heated-tobacco products will also be added to the excise list.

Excise duties on traditional tobacco products will rise as well, including a 7% increase for filtered cigarettes and 3% for heated-tobacco products.

Officials believe the measures will protect public health, strengthen control over nicotine sales, and boost fiscal revenue.

Image source: ONT