Key points:

• Papua New Guinea has announced an immediate ban on the importation, sale, and use of all e-cigarette products, citing concerns over youth health.
• Health Minister Elias Kapavore stated that the ban will be formalized through a gazettal notice and come into full effect seven days after publication.
• Violators of the ban face substantial fines: K10,000 for individuals and up to K200,000 for corporations, particularly those associated with the tobacco industry.

The Government of Papua New Guinea has officially prohibited the importation, sale, and use of all e-cigarette products, effective immediately.

Health Minister Elias Kapavore announced the ban on May 13, expressing deep concern over the rising popularity of vaping among youth. The decision follows recommendations from the National Intelligence Organization and legal counsel, highlighting the urgency of addressing the issue.

“As of [May 13], I want to say that we are signing off [on] the ban on e-cigarettes, and it will be now formally issued through gazettal notice,” Kapavore stated. “Once it’s published in the gazette, it will take seven days to get full effect for its full implementation, and any e-cigarette products coming to our country will be deemed illegal under our law.”

The comprehensive ban encompasses the sale, distribution, and importation of all vaping devices and liquids. Under the Tobacco Control Act 2016, individuals found violating the ban will face fines of K10,000, while corporate offenders could be penalized up to K100,000. Companies linked to the tobacco industry may incur fines as high as K200,000.

Health officials have indicated that the Department of Health, in coordination with PNG Customs, will actively enforce the new regulations. Efforts will include monitoring and restricting sales, as well as identifying retail outlets currently stocking e-cigarette products.

Minister Kapavore emphasized the health risks associated with e-cigarettes, noting that many contain nicotine and harmful chemicals, some of which are known carcinogens. He cited studies linking the devices to heart problems, elevated blood pressure, and harmful exposure to bystanders.

“E-cigarette aerosols can contain carcinogenic substances and toxic additives. Even non-users near those vaping are at risk,” Kapavore warned.

According to the Ministry of Health, tobacco use accounts for nearly 9% of national deaths and costs the PNG economy over K787 million annually. The ban on e-cigarettes is part of a broader strategy to reduce the health and economic burdens associated with tobacco-related products.