By Timothy S. Donahue

Top Takeaways:

• Nicaragua’s Health Ministry reaffirmed that e-cigarettes and vapes remain banned nationwide under a 2021 resolution.
• The prohibition covers the manufacture, import, export, sale, promotion, and use of vaping devices, with or without nicotine.
• Authorities warned that violations would trigger legal sanctions under the General Health Law and urged all government agencies to enforce the ban.

Nicaragua’s Ministry of Health has formally reaffirmed its nationwide ban on e-cigarettes, vapes, and similar devices, underscoring that the prohibition remains fully in force more than four years after it was enacted.

In an official statement dated Jan. 2, 2026, the Ministry of Health (MINSA) confirmed that Ministerial Resolution No. 334-2021 remains valid and described it as “absolutely prohibiting” the use and commercialization of electronic nicotine delivery systems throughout Nicaragua.

The ministry said the ban applies to both individuals and legal entities and covers the manufacturing, import, export, promotion, advertising, storage, distribution, commercialization, and use of e-cigarettes, vaporizers, and related devices, regardless of whether they contain nicotine.

According to MINSA, the products pose a serious public health risk due to toxic substances and are linked to cancer. The ministry warned that noncompliance will result in legal sanctions under Nicaragua’s General Health Law.

The statement also urged authorities across government institutions to ensure strict enforcement of the resolution “to safeguard the integrity of Nicaraguan families.”

Resolution No. 334-2021 was originally issued on June 28, 2021, and established a nationwide blanket prohibition on all electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS). The resolution applies to devices commonly referred to locally as “vapeadores,” e-cigarettes, vaporizers, or any similar products, with or without nicotine.

The ministry reiterated that the ban applies to all stages of the supply chain, including production, importation, exportation, advertising, and use, and emphasized that the legal framework remains unchanged.

MINSA’s Jan. 2 statement does not introduce new measures but serves as a formal reminder that the existing prohibition remains in effect and that penalties will be imposed on those found in violation.

The statement was issued in Managua and signed by the Ministry of Health.