The Panamanian government has issued a strict ban on the sale of vapes, heated tobacco products, and oral nicotine products to minors, as well as banning related advertising and promotion. The new rules, which also restrict the use of these products in public and private places and require specific measures to be taken by stores selling them, will come into effect on July 31, 2025.
The Panamanian government has enacted a strict ban on the sale of vapes, heated tobacco products, and oral nicotine products to minors. At the same time, any advertising, promotion, sponsorship, and promotion of these products are also prohibited. The regulation has been published in the Official Gazette.
According to the resolution, the use of vapes and their accessories, which contain or do not contain nicotine, will be banned in public and private offices, transport vehicles, and their platforms, as well as public dense places such as churches, beauty salons, Internet cafes, restaurants, cafes, bars, nightclubs, and hotels. In addition, sports stadiums, public areas of commercial and residential buildings, work environments, and educational and health institutions are also covered by the ban.
In addition, in stores that sell these products, vapes may not be placed in direct contact with customers, except in closed display cases or shelves, which will be in effect for two years after the law takes effect. These stores need to post signs that clearly state that “the sale of vapes to minors is prohibited.” Minors may also not be involved in the sale of such products or be employed in related work.
The new rules will take effect on July 31, 2025, six months after they are issued.
