Uzbekistan to Implement Complete Vape Ban from March 1
Uzbekistan will implement a complete ban on the circulation of vapes from March 1st, covering their sale, storage, and import. Consumers can avoid criminal prosecution by voluntarily handing over the devices to law enforcement. Legitimate sales networks are adjusting their business direction, with larger suppliers shifting towards heated tobacco products and premium cigarettes.
Key Takeaways
- Uzbekistan will completely ban the legal sale, storage, and import of vapes from March 1st.
- Consumers can voluntarily hand over banned devices to law enforcement to avoid criminal prosecution.
- Industry insiders say imports have effectively ceased since early 2025, with retailers mainly selling off existing inventory.
- Purchasing activity has declined by approximately 50% from its 2023 peak due to rumors of “huge fines.”
Uzbekistan Enforces Nationwide Vape Ban
According to Spot on February 27, 2026. Uzbekistan will implement a complete ban on the circulation of vapes from March 1, 2026. The new law will terminate the legal sale, storage, and import of these products. Ordinary consumers who wish to avoid criminal prosecution can choose to voluntarily hand over the devices to law enforcement.
Vape Imports Already Declining Ahead of Ban
The founder of a major distribution company stated that vape imports were effectively “paralyzed” by early 2025, with retailers primarily selling off warehouse inventory.
Consumer Demand Falls Amid Fear of Heavy Fines
This individual claimed that consumer purchasing activity declined by approximately 50% from its 2023 peak due to rumors of “massive fines.” They believe the disappearance of the legal market will benefit smugglers and deprive the national budget of tax revenue.
Retailers Shift to Heated Tobacco and Alternative Products
Spot reports that some legitimate sales networks are rapidly shifting their business focus, with larger suppliers turning to still-permitted heated tobacco products and premium cigarettes. Some vape stores are also repositioning themselves, with some specialty stores transforming into food and retail spaces targeting young people, replacing vape products like e-liquids with fast food, coffee, and popular Asian snacks.
Vape Ban Signed into Law by President Mirziyoyev
On November 28, 2025, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a law banning the sale of vapes and their e-liquids, declaring the law effective three months after its promulgation.
