E-Cigarettes and Vapes Officially Banned in Bangladesh

Bangladesh has officially banned e-cigarettes, vapes, and other emerging tobacco products following the enforcement of the Smoking and Tobacco Products Use Control (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025. The new law came into effect on December 30, after receiving approval from the President, according to the Chief Adviser’s press wing.

With this move, the government has taken a firm stance against modern nicotine products that have grown rapidly in recent years, especially among younger users.

What the New Law Covers

Products are now a punishable offence under the amended ordinance, producing, importing, exporting, storing, selling, or using e-cigarettes and similar tobacco.

Penalties for Violations

• Up to six months of imprisonment

• A fine of up to Tk 5 lakh

• Cancellation of business licences

• Seizure of products for companies involved

The law allows authorities to file and conduct cases under the Code of Criminal Procedure, strengthening enforcement mechanisms.

Expanded Definition of Tobacco Products

One of the most important changes is the broader definition of tobacco products. The law now clearly includes:

• E-cigarettes

• Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS)

• Heated Tobacco Products

• Nicotine pouches

In addition, the government has the authority to declare any similar product a tobacco product through a gazette notification. Separate legal definitions for nicotine and nicotine products have also been introduced.

Stronger Restrictions on Public Use and Advertising

The ordinance significantly expands the scope of what qualifies as a public place. The government has banned tobacco use in all public places and public transport.

Increased Fines

• The fine for smoking in public places has been raised from Tk 300 to Tk 2,000

Advertising and Promotion Ban

All forms of tobacco advertising are now prohibited, including:

• Print and electronic media

• Online platforms

• Social media

• OTT platforms

The law also bans the display and promotion of tobacco packs at points of sale. The law no longer allows tobacco companies to use their branding in corporate social responsibility activities or sponsor events and programmes.

Sales Restrictions Near Sensitive Areas

Within 100 metres, areas where tobacco products have been banned

• Educational institutions

• Hospitals and clinics

• Playgrounds

• Children’s parks

This provision aims to reduce exposure to tobacco products among children and vulnerable groups.

Bidi Production and Harmful Additives Banned

The ordinance introduces a complete ban on bidis made from kumbi and tendu leaves. It also criminalises the mixing of any harmful or addictive substances with tobacco or tobacco products.

Mandatory Standard Packaging and Health Warnings

Health warning regulations have been tightened further. Tobacco packaging must now include:

• • Covering 75 percent of the package, Graphic health warnings, Standardised packaging, with no exceptions

The new law strictly prohibits the sale of tobacco products without standard packaging.

A Unified Legal Framework for Tobacco Control

Beyond banning e-cigarettes and vapes, the ordinance aims to protect public health by reducing exposure to nicotine and tobacco-related harm. It also repeals separate laws related to bidi production, replacing them with a single, unified legal framework for tobacco control in Bangladesh.