Ukraine Military Voices Concern Over Potential Vape and Pouch Ban

Key Point

• Six draft laws address nicotine pouches, sachets, and vapes.
• Main bill No.14110 calls for a full ban on production and sales.
• Military and experts oppose the ban, citing use among soldiers.
• Alternative bills propose regulation, registration, and labeling.
• Bill No.14110-4 also seeks to ban e-cigarettes and refill containers.

2Firsts, Nov. 10, 2025 — According to Vox Ukraine, the Verkhovna Rada is considering six draft laws to establish rules for new nicotine products — including pouches, sachets, and other smoke-free items containing nicotine but not tobacco.

The main bill, No.14110, defines “nicotine products for oral use” as those consumed through the mouth’s mucous membrane, such as pouches or sachets, and proposes a complete ban on their production, import, sale, and circulation within Ukraine.

Several military personnel and public health experts have voiced opposition to the total ban, noting that nicotine pouches are widely used among Ukrainian soldiers. They do not require fire, do not reveal positions at night, and are convenient in the field. 

The state also collects significant tax revenue from these products — around UAH 1 billion expected in 2025. Opponents warn that a full ban could drive the market underground, as happened with flavored vapes, 93% of which are now illicit, and cause budget losses.

Alternative bills, however, aim to regulate rather than prohibit nicotine pouches and tobacco-free products by setting unified rules for their circulation. 

Most require manufacturers to notify the Ministry of Health before market entry — three months (Bills Nos.14110-2, -4, -5) or six months (Bill No.14110-1) — and to submit detailed information on composition, nicotine content, toxicological data, and production processes.

The proposed nicotine strength limits vary: 20 mg per portion in most bills, or 17 mg under Bill No.14110-3. All versions prohibit advertising, sponsorship, sales to minors, and any state support for production. 

Packaging would need to display product details — including composition, dosage, and production date — along with a mandatory health warning. For example, Bill No.14110-3 requires the warning to cover at least 30% of the package, while Bill No.14110-5 mandates the label: “This product contains nicotine and causes addiction.”

Bill No.14110-4 separately proposes a full ban on the production, import, sale, and advertising of e-cigarettes, vape liquids, and refill containers.

Lawmakers are now debating how to balance public health goals with economic interests and existing use among the military.

Image source: Vox Ukraine