Belarus has put forth a draft law aimed at significantly tightening the circulation of electronic smoking systems (vapes), including licensing requirements and new restrictions for users. The bill, "On Tobacco Raw Materials, Tobacco, Non-Tobacco Nicotine-Containing Products, Electronic Smoking Systems and Liquids for Them," is currently open for public discussion on Belarus's Legal Forum.
The proposed measures follow earlier discussions this year about making vape sales more difficult. Authorities state that around 77% of disposable vapes (over 26,000 units) are imported illegally, according to data from official importer "Energo-Oil," leading to an estimated annual state budget loss of 130 million rubles in excise taxes from the shadow market for disposable e-cigarettes and liquids.
While a complete ban on vapes and liquids was considered, the government has opted for stricter controls and a licensing system covering production, storage, import, and wholesale/retail sales. The draft law also introduces new prohibitions for citizens and businesses, including a ban on vaping near the entrances of residential buildings. Despite these tougher measures, an outright ban is not planned due to stable consumer demand, with authors noting a ban could worsen the problem by stimulating illegal market growth.
