Uzbekistan Imposes Full Ban on E-Cigarettes from 27 November

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — From 27 November, the circulation of electronic cigarettes and e-liquids is completely prohibited in Uzbekistan. The new ban covers the purchase, possession, production, and cross-border transportation of these products. Violators face substantial fines, and in some cases, imprisonment of up to five years.

The law imposing an absolute ban on the use of electronic smoking devices and similar nicotine-containing products was approved by the Senate of the Oliy Majlis in April 2025, following adoption by the lower house of parliament in January. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed the legislation, which provides for criminal liability for violations of the ban.

The new regulation covers any illegal activities involving the distribution of electronic smoking devices, smokeless tobacco, and related nicotine products. Special attention is given to large-scale or repeated violations after administrative sanctions have been applied.

Amendments affect the law “On Restricting the Distribution and Consumption of Alcohol and Tobacco Products” and relevant articles of the Criminal Code. Penalties for dealing in prohibited products range from fines of 300 to 500 base calculation units, corrective labor for 2–3 years, restriction of freedom, or imprisonment for 3–5 years.

Citizens may be exempted from liability if they voluntarily report violations and surrender the prohibited items to state authorities.