Kazakhstan Bans E-cigarette Sales and Imposes Criminal Penalties

According to a report from NUR.KZ on July 18th, the police in Almaty, Kazakhstan confiscated 8000 e-cigarettes in one day, involving the WAKA brand.

According to Kuatbek Nauatov, Deputy Minister of the Almaty Police Department, official stores that used to sell e-cigarettes have now been closed, but illegal sales on online platforms are rampant.

The defendant accepts orders through instant messaging apps, receives information on the quantity of goods and shipping address, and uses courier services to deliver the goods to customers. After taking measures to investigate, it was found that these so-called e-cigarette shipping points are mainly located in the basements of luxury apartments or computer clubs, where illegal business is conducted in secret.

In Kazakhstan, starting from June 20th, the distribution of smokeless tobacco products, e-cigarettes, spices, and vaping liquids has been prohibited and classified as a criminal offense. The production, import, sale, and distribution of these products now carry criminal liabilities.

According to relevant laws, individuals involved in the sale and distribution of non-tobacco products, electronic consumption systems (e-cigarettes), flavors, and e-liquids can be fined up to 738,500 hryvnias (approximately $1,541.17), sentenced to equivalent community service, up to 200 hours of community service, or up to 50 days of imprisonment. Those engaged in the manufacturing or import of non-tobacco products, e-cigarettes, flavors, and their e-liquids can face a fine of up to 7.4 million hryvnias (approximately $15,443), equivalent community service, up to 600 hours of community service, up to two years of restricted freedom, or imprisonment for the same amount of time, with potential confiscation of property as a consequence.

If the following conditions are met, such as being part of a criminal group, making significant profits, or committing multiple crimes, the maximum fine (up to 18.4 million kroner [38,398 US dollars]), or an equivalent amount of community service, or a maximum of 1200 hours of community service, or a maximum of five years of freedom restriction, or an equivalent amount of imprisonment, may be imposed, and confiscation of property may also follow.