In a bid to curb the growing trend of vape smoking among youth in the federal capital, the Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services is set to table ‘Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (Regulation) Bill’ in the House following its approval by the panel.
The proposed legislation seeks to impose strict controls on the sale, marketing, and use of electronic nicotine delivery systems, commonly known as vapes and e-cigarettes, in Islamabad.
Moved by Senator Sarmad Ali, the bill comes amid rising concern over the increasing use of vaping products among school and college students. It introduces a comprehensive regulatory framework governing the import, distribution, and promotion of these products.
One of the most stringent provisions of the bill is a complete ban on the sale of e-cigarettes within a 50-meter radius of any school, college, or any educational institution, aimed at restricting easy access to flavored nicotine products for students. The legislation also sets a strict age limit, making it illegal to sell vaping products to anyone under the age of 18.
Under the proposed law, 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 further enforces a total ban on vape advertising, including promotions on television, social media, and billboards, particularly targeting marketing strategies that appeal to minors.
To ensure consumer safety and quality control, the legislation proposes mandatory standards for all vaping products, including a maximum nicotine concentration of 40 milligrams per milliliter, compulsory child-resistant and tamper-proof packaging, and prominent health warnings on every pack. E-commerce platforms selling vapes will also be legally bound to implement robust age-verification systems before completing any sale.
Fines and legal prosecution proposed for violations
Offenders breaching age and location restrictions could face an immediate fine of Rs50,000 for the first offense, while repeat violators and those involved in smuggling non-standardized e-liquids may face heavier fines and legal action.
During recent deliberations on the draft, officials of the Senate Standing Committee emphasised that although e-cigarettes are often marketed as a safer alternative to traditional smoking, medical evidence suggests they pose serious long-term risks to the respiratory health of young users.
The bill is currently under review by relevant ministries to finalise enforcement mechanisms before 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.
News Published in Express Tribune on January 7, 2025.
