Laos Bans E-Cigarette Imports; Vientiane Seizes and Destroys Large Stocks

On June 14, authorities from the Narcotics Control Department of Vientiane, along with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce and the Ministry of Health, destroyed e-cigarettes, e-liquid, and other products at a waste disposal center located 32 kilometers along Route 13 South.
 
It is reported that these prohibited items were seized from the market in Dongdu Village, Setthathirath District, Vientiane. Colonel Pany SOUTSAVATH, head of the Narcotics Control Department, stated: "This is in enforcement of the decree BL No. 52 dated February 25, 2019, regarding tobacco control and penalties for violators.
 
Additionally, there were complaints requesting authorities to inspect shops selling e-cigarettes in the Dongdu area. Therefore, on June 7, 2019, after coordinating with relevant departments, the Narcotics Control Department inspected a targeted shop owned by Ms. Phay (31 years old) in the Dongdu market, where prohibited e-cigarettes and equipment were publicly seized, and it was found that she had advertised on social media.
 
Upon checking the shop's business license, it was found that the shop was not authorized to sell e-cigarettes, and it was also discovered that the owner was selling other prohibited devices, totaling 25 boxes and 5 bags, valued at 15 million kip. Dr. Pany VONGPADITH, deputy director of the Health Promotion Department of Vientiane's Health Department, revealed: "All tobacco products must be approved by the health department before they can be sold, and importing e-cigarettes is illegal." The Vientiane Ministry of Industry and Commerce stated: "Although e-cigarettes are banned from import, there are still illegal individuals smuggling and selling them, which are favored by young people." Therefore, the Vientiane Ministry of Industry and Commerce warned the shop owner and fined them based on the product's value.
 
The Narcotics Control Department of Laos added: "Efforts to suppress e-cigarette products will continue in cooperation with relevant departments to inspect targeted shops to eliminate the import and sale of e-cigarettes and their devices."