Health authorities in the South American country of Venezuela announced on August 3 that they have decided to ban the use, manufacture and import of electronic cigarettes.
Venezuela’s Ministry of Health said in a statement that it would ban the manufacture, storage, distribution, circulation, marketing, import, export, use, consumption, advertising, promotion and sponsorship of e-cigarettes.
The resolution stresses that state institutions, business premises, public transport, public sector offices, owners or managers of private areas and public Spaces, regardless of their use, are obliged to ensure compliance with the standard. They must post a visible notice warning that “consumption or in any way making available to the public e-cigarette Management systems (SEN) and other accessories are prohibited.”
The ban was announced nearly 40 days after Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro asked health authorities to consider “whether it is possible to ban the sale on the national territory of these harmful devices that cause lung and bronchial diseases.” As early as June this year, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro held an electronic cigarette in a program on national television to explain the harm of electronic cigarettes to the lungs and bronchus.
Although the relevant regulations do not mention specific punitive measures, it will be confirmed that those who violate the ban will be punished and sanctioned in accordance with existing laws and resolutions.
According to the Phoenix network reported on August 5, the ban has forced local e-cigarette dealers into trouble. According to local practitioners, many e-cigarette shops have been shut down, most products have been removed from the shelves, and more than 5,000 employees have lost their jobs.
reference
[1] Gobierno venezolano prohíbe el uso y comercialización de cigarrillos electrónicos
[2] Venezuela has ordered the closure of stores that prohibit the use or sale of e-cigarettes