Panama Government Enacts Strict Ban on Sale of Vaping Products

Feb.17

Panama government imposes strict ban on selling e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and oral nicotine products to minors, as per La Prensa.

According to La Prensa's report on February 15th, the Panamanian government has issued a strict ban on the sale of e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and oral nicotine products to minors. Additionally, any advertising, promotion, sponsorship, or marketing activities related to these products are also prohibited. This regulation has been published in the Official Gazette.

According to the resolution, e-cigarettes and their accessories containing nicotine or not will be prohibited from use in public and private offices, transportation vehicles and their platforms, as well as public places such as churches, beauty salons, internet cafes, restaurants, cafes, bars, nightclubs, and hotels where people gather. Additionally, the ban includes public areas of sports stadiums, commercial and residential buildings, work environments, educational and health institutions.

In addition, in stores selling these products, e-cigarettes must not be placed in areas accessible to customers, except for enclosed display cases or shelves. This provision will remain effective for two years after the law takes effect. Additionally, these shops are required to display signs clearly stating "Sale of e-cigarettes to minors is prohibited." Minors are also not allowed to sell such products or be employed in related work.

The new regulations will take effect six months after they are announced, on July 31, 2025.

References:

[1] Ministerio de Salud regula la venta y el uso del cigarrillo electrónico

Also Read:

[1] Panamá América Reports Constitutional Court Decision on E-Cigarettes

[2] Panama's Highest Court to Hear Lawsuit Against E-cigarette Ban

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