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Mexico Enacts Nationwide Ban on Vape and E‑Cigarette Commerce With Prison Terms and Fines

Authorities describe the crackdown as a child-protection step, with enforcement details still pending.

Overview

  • The reform to the General Health Law took effect on January 16 after its publication in the Diario Oficial de la Federación, applying nationwide.
  • It outlaws manufacturing, importing, distributing, selling, supplying and advertising of these devices and consumables—including disposables—regardless of nicotine content.
  • Violations carry one to eight years in prison and fines of 100 to 2,000 UMAs (roughly 11,700 to 234,600 pesos), while personal possession and use are not penalized.
  • COFEPRIS is revoking prior authorizations and can seize products and close businesses, yet on-the-ground reports documented continued sales in parts of Mexico City.
  • Lawmakers set 180 days for federal secondary rules and one year for state harmonization, with officials indicating enforcement will ramp up in stages.