Pakistan Senate moves to regulate vapes with strict new bill to protect youth

Strict penalties, advertising bans, and age limits proposed as lawmakers move to curb rising vape use among students

ISLAMABAD: In a significant move to address the rising trend of vape smoking among youth in the federal capital, the Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services is set to table the Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (Regulation) Bill in the Senate following its approval by the committee.

The proposed legislation aims to impose stringent controls on the sale, marketing, and use of electronic nicotine delivery systems, commonly known as vapes and e-cigarettes, within Islamabad.

Moved by Senator Sarmad Ali, the bill comes amid growing concern over the increasing use of vaping products among school and college students. It introduces a comprehensive regulatory framework governing the import, distribution, sale, and promotion of electronic nicotine delivery systems.

One of the most stringent provisions of the bill is a complete ban on the sale of e-cigarettes within a 50-metre radius of any school, college, or educational institution. This measure is intended to limit students’ easy access to flavored nicotine products. The proposed law also enforces a strict age restriction, making it illegal to sell vaping products to anyone under the age of 18.

Under the legislation, vaping would be treated at par with traditional tobacco products. If passed, the use of vapes will be prohibited in public transport, government offices, public parks, and other shared community spaces. The bill also proposes a total ban on vape advertising, including promotions on television, social media platforms, and billboards, particularly targeting marketing tactics that appeal to minors.

To ensure consumer safety and product quality, the bill introduces mandatory standards for all vaping products. These include a maximum nicotine concentration of 40 milligrams per millilitre, compulsory child-resistant and tamper-proof packaging, and clear health warnings displayed prominently on every product pack. E-commerce platforms selling vaping products will also be legally required to implement robust age-verification systems before completing any sale.

The proposed law outlines strict penalties for violations. Individuals or businesses breaching age and location restrictions could face an immediate fine of Rs50,000 for a first offence. Repeat offenders and those involved in smuggling non-standardised e-liquids may be subject to heavier fines and legal prosecution.

During recent deliberations on the draft legislation, officials from the Senate Standing Committee stressed that while e-cigarettes are often promoted as a safer alternative to traditional smoking, medical evidence indicates they pose serious long-term risks to respiratory health, particularly among young users.

The bill is currently under review by relevant ministries to finalise enforcement mechanisms ahead of its formal presentation in the Senate, as lawmakers push for urgent legislative action to protect youth from the growing public health threat posed by vaping.