Abkhazia Parliament Passes Bill Regulating Nicotine Consumption Devices

The Abkhazian Parliament has passed a bill regulating nicotine consumption devices, aimed at protecting the lives and health of citizens, especially minors.

According to a December 7 report by Abkhazian media outlet Apsnypress, the Parliament of the Republic of Abkhazia passed a bill titled “On the Regulation of the Circulation of Nicotine Consumption Devices, Their Components, and Parts.”

The bill was introduced by deputy Inar Gitsba. He stressed that the main goal of the legislation is to protect the lives and health of citizens of the Republic of Abkhazia, especially minors, from the effects of excessive use of nicotine-containing products.

In recent years, the circulation of nicotine products in Abkhazia has increased significantly, especially the use of inhalation devices such as e-cigarettes. These devices use large quantities of nicotine solutions, e-liquid containing flavorings and colorants, as well as additives that strengthen nicotine dependence.

Data presented by Gitsba also shows that new nicotine products continue to be aggressively marketed, promoted as “safer,” “tastier,” and “smoke-free.” Manufacturers package these products as “safe” and “flavorful,” using a variety of marketing strategies to attract new users, especially minors, leading them to develop nicotine dependence at an early age.

Gitsba stated:

 “Research has found that the use of e-cigarettes can affect the protective barrier of the lungs, lead to pulmonary fibrosis, cause chronic bronchitis, increase the risk of myocardial infarction and stroke, and raise the risk of tumor-related diseases. At present, more than 30 countries have banned the sale of e-cigarettes.” 

According to Abkhazian statistics, from January 1, 2020 to May 2, 2023, more than 71,000 e-cigarette devices and e-liquids were imported into Abkhazia.