In an effort to address the growing use of vaping products among youth in Islamabad, the Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services is set to introduce the *Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (Regulation) Bill* in the House after it was approved by the committee.
The proposed legislation seeks to impose strict controls on the sale, marketing, and use of vapes and e-cigarettes. With a rising concern over the increased use of these products among school and college students, the bill proposes a comprehensive regulatory framework for their import, distribution, and promotion.
One of the key provisions of the bill includes a ban on the sale of e-cigarettes within a 50-meter radius of any educational institution, such as schools and colleges, to limit students’ access to flavored nicotine products. Additionally, the bill sets a strict age limit, making it illegal to sell vaping products to anyone under the age of 18.
The proposed law would treat vaping similarly to traditional tobacco products, prohibiting the use of e-cigarettes on public transport, in government offices, public parks, and other shared spaces. The bill also seeks to ban all vape advertising, especially marketing targeted at minors through television, social media, and billboards.
To ensure consumer safety, the bill requires mandatory standards for vaping products, including limiting nicotine concentration to 40 milligrams per milliliter, child-resistant packaging, and health warnings on every pack. E-commerce platforms will also be required to implement age-verification systems before completing sales.
Violations of the bill could result in fines of up to Rs 50,000 for first-time offenders, with higher fines and legal action for repeat violations or involvement in the smuggling of non-standardized e-liquids.
The bill is currently under review by relevant ministries before being formally presented to the Senate, as lawmakers push for urgent action to protect the health of youth from the dangers of vaping.
