According to a report by Spot on January 8th, the Uzbekistan parliament has started discussing a draft law to ban e-cigarettes. If the draft law is passed, individuals who illegally import or sell e-cigarettes will face administrative and criminal consequences.
Minister of Health Asilbek Khudayarov stated during a meeting of the lower house of the highest parliamentary body that while the ban will affect e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products are not included in the restrictions. When asked about foreign tourists bringing e-cigarettes into the country, the minister emphasized that foreigners will be informed of the ban and any related tobacco products will be confiscated at the border. Additionally, officials have made a distinction between e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products.
The minister emphasized that currently, most economically capable e-cigarette users tend to prefer heated tobacco products over traditional matches or lighters. Therefore, the ban primarily targets e-cigarettes containing flavorings and nicotine, which are more commonly used among young people.
The Ministry of Health will collaborate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Customs Commission, and various embassies to conduct policy promotion for foreign tourists entering the country. In addition, the Minister acknowledged that the proposed ban on e-cigarettes is too harsh in terms of penalties, but these measures will be adjusted from "light to heavy.
Deputy Speaker of the Lower House Rahim Hakimov has suggested adding a clause to the second reading to allow for amnesty to individuals who voluntarily come forward, in order to avoid potential impact on the tourism industry.
National Renaissance" party leader Alisher Kadirov pointed out that the previous parliament had proposed a ban on the circulation of e-cigarettes, but did not receive support. He emphasized the health risks of e-cigarettes for smokers.
In the first reading of the bill, 133 legislators voted in favor, 3 voted against, 1 abstained, and 2 did not participate in the vote.
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