President Irfaan Ali Announces Restrictions on Recreational Vape Imports in Guyana

The Guyana Health Policy Institute has welcomed President Irfaan Ali’s plan to restrict imports of vapes and vaping products, calling it a needed step to protect children and teens from nicotine addiction and harmful exposure. It says the policy must be backed by strict enforcement, clear rules for existing stock, and public education to prevent smuggling and youth access.

Guyana will restrict imports of recreational vapes and vaping products after President Irfaan Ali said rising use among young people poses public health risks. Finance Minister Ashni Singh will issue an order under the Customs Act, while health authorities may still approve limited medicinal or therapeutic use.

Guyana’s private sector groups have backed the government’s plan to restrict imports of recreational vaping products, saying it is needed to protect children and young people from nicotine addiction and other health risks. They also called for clear rules, strong enforcement at ports, and public education to prevent illegal trade and support families and schools.

Guyana’s Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry has backed President Irfaan Ali’s ban on importing vaping products, aimed at reducing children’s access to e-cigarettes and other vape devices. The Chamber says the move supports public health, but warned it will only work if authorities strengthen border checks, set clear rules and enforce the restrictions consistently to curb illegal imports.

President Irfaan Ali said Guyana will soon restrict imports of vaping products, with limited exceptions approved by health authorities, in response to growing concern over their use by children and young people. He said the move aims to curb public health risks such as nicotine addiction and respiratory harm while allowing only legitimate medicinal or therapeutic uses.