Colombia City Bans Vape, First in the Country

Ibagué has become the first city in Colombia to impose restrictions on carrying, distributing, marketing, and consuming vapes, with the aim of protecting minors. The Ibagué Mayor's Office has issued a decree stating that violators will have their devices confiscated and destroyed and will be subject to a fine.

Minors under 18 caught using vapes will receive a warning and be required to participate in a community program or educational coexistence activity. Establishments selling vapes near educational institutions may face reprimands or even permanent closure by the authorities.

The Metropolitan Police, in coordination with the secretariats of Government, Health, and Education, as well as the Family and ICBF police stations, will carry out campaigns in educational environments to discourage the use of electronic cigarettes, vapes, and electronic systems with and without nicotine delivery.

The Superintendence of Industry and Commerce will monitor companies selling vapes in Colombia, and investigations have been launched against British American Tobacco Colombia, Inversiones Glu Cloud, Grupo Diy, and Lifetech for alleged violation of consumer protection. The companies are accused of not providing clear information related to the intensity and amount of nicotine offered in their products.

Congress is also considering a bill to update Law 1335 of 2009 to extend control measures applicable to tobacco products to electronic cigarettes, with the goal of preventing harm to minors and non-smokers. The proposed regulation would prevent sales to minors, restrict vape use in closed and public spaces, and mandate graphic warnings on packaging about the health effects of vape use.