Pakistan Advances E-Cigarette Legislation: Proposed Minor Sales Ban, Limits on Public Use and Ads

Key Takeaways:

· Sales Controls: Pakistan proposes an explicit ban on sales of e-cigarettes and e-shisha to people under 18, with stricter enforcement on sales within 50 meters of schools.

· Use & Marketing Restrictions: Proposed ban on use of these products in public places; advertising, promotions, and sponsorships would be restricted.

· Tiered Penalties: First offense: 50,000 rupees (approx. US$177); second offense: 100,000 rupees (approx. US$353); violations within 50 meters of educational institutions: 200,000 rupees (approx. US$706); repeat offenses up to 500,000 rupees (approx. US$1,766).

· Legislative Status: The proposal is at the Senate “bill introduction” stage and remains subject to debate, voting, and potential amendments.

2Firsts, October 10, 2025 — Citing Pakistan’s Bloom Pakistan, the Senate has received a bill proposing a ban on sales of e-cigarettes and e-shisha to individuals under 18, a comprehensive ban on their use in public places, and restrictions on related advertising, promotions, and sponsorships. The bill was submitted to the Senate Secretariat by Senator Sarmad Ali and is currently at the proposal stage, pending review and a vote.

Bill Highlights

· Sales Restrictions: Prohibits sales of e-cigarettes and e-shisha to minors (under 18); tighter controls on sales within 50 meters of schools.

· Use & Marketing: Proposes a public-place use ban; imposes limits on advertising, promotions, and sponsorships.

· Penalties: First offense: 50,000 rupees (approx. US$177); second offense: 100,000 rupees (approx. US$353); violations within 50 meters of educational institutions: 200,000 rupees (approx. US$706); repeat offenses up to 500,000 rupees (approx. US$1,766).

Health & Public Policy Perspective

Health experts note that e-cigarettes and e-shisha contain nicotine and other harmful chemicals that may damage lung health and adversely affect adolescent brain development, increasing the risk of long-term addiction. Although these products are often promoted as safer than traditional cigarettes, research indicates their long-term health risks are not lower and may in some cases be greater.

Cover image: Bloom Pakistan