Vaping enthusiasts in Kyrgyzstan might want to start stocking up on their favorite e-liquids and devices, because come July 1, 2025, the country is set to ban the import, circulation, and use of electronic cigarettes altogether, as Kabar reported.
President Sadyr Zhaparov put pen to paper on the new law, which aims to protect the health and well-being of Kyrgyz citizens from the potential risks associated with using e-cigarettes and nicotine-containing liquids. The Jogorku Kenesh, Kyrgyzstan's parliament, had already given the legislation the green light back on October 23, 2024.
But the ban isn't just about keeping e-cigs out of the hands of Kyrgyz vapers. The law also packs a serious punch when it comes to penalties for those caught breaking the rules.
Get caught puffing on an e-cigarette in Kyrgyzstan, and you could be slapped with a fine of around $115. And if you're a legal entity caught selling these banned devices, you could be looking at a hefty fine of around $695.
But the real kicker comes for those caught importing e-cigarettes into the country. Individuals found guilty of this offense could face correctional labor for anywhere from two months to a year, or a fine of up to $1,390. And if you're caught importing these devices in large or especially large quantities, you could be looking at a fine of up to $2,300 or even imprisonment for one to two years.
So, if you're a vaper planning a trip to Kyrgyzstan in the near future, you might want to think twice about packing your favorite device. And if you're a Kyrgyz citizen who can't imagine life without your trusty e-cig, now might be the time to start exploring some alternative stress-relief methods. Because come July 2025, the vaping landscape in Kyrgyzstan is set to change in a big way.
