Mexico Passes Law Banning Commercial Sale and Advertising of Vapes and E-Cigarettes

Key points

• Sponsor: President Claudia Sheinbaum
• Scope: Nationwide ban on commercial production, sale, import, export, and advertising of vapes and e-cigarettes
• Exemption: Personal use of vape products not prohibited
• Penalties: 1–8 years imprisonment; fines of 11,314–226,280 pesos (approx. USD 621–12,430, per wise.com rate on Dec. 9, 2025)
• Additional reform: Expanded powers for the Health Ministry in health infrastructure and drug supply

2Firsts, December 10, 2025 – According to Mexican media, the Chamber of Deputies has passed a law banning all commercial activities related to vapes and e-cigarettes nationwide, including manufacturing, transport, import, export, sales, and advertising. The law does not prohibit individuals from using or possessing vape devices.

The reform, which passed with 324 votes in favor and 129 against, originates from a proposal by President Claudia Sheinbaum to amend the General Health Law. It establishes prison sentences of one to eight years and fines ranging from 11,314 to 226,280 pesos (approximately USD 621–12,430).

The law defines e-cigarettes as “mechanical or electronic systems designed to heat, vaporize, or atomize toxic substances, with or without nicotine, for inhalation.” It classifies vaping as a public health threat to support prevention policies and protect vulnerable groups.

The legislation also strengthens the powers of the Health Ministry in planning health infrastructure, ensuring medical supply, and coordinating the national health system.

Opposition lawmakers argued that the prohibition could fuel the black market. Iraís Reyes, a deputy from the Citizens’ Movement, said: “Not regulating a product people already consume only benefits organized crime.”

Several organizations had previously warned of Mexico’s growing illegal vape market, driven by restrictive policies and a lack of regulatory clarity.

Image source: Proceso