Overview
- The reform to the General Health Law, published in the federal gazette, is now in force and prohibits manufacturing, importing, distributing, selling and advertising electronic cigarettes, vape devices and analogous products across Mexico.
- The restriction applies to all formats and accessories, including disposables and products with or without nicotine, closing prior loopholes used to market these devices.
- Personal possession and consumption are not criminalized when there is no intent to sell or distribute, shifting enforcement toward the commercial supply chain.
- Violations carry penalties of one to eight years in prison and fines of 100 to 2,000 UMA (about 11,731 to 234,620 pesos), with authorities empowered to seize products and shutter establishments.
- Existing health permits are void, and COFEPRIS will notify permit holders to cease activities immediately as Congress prepares secondary rules to define operational enforcement, while experts warn of likely pressure on informal markets.