Mexico’s Congress has approved a groundbreaking law that imposes criminal penalties of up to eight years in prison for the sale of electronic cigarettes and similar vaping devices. The vote took place on Wednesday, with the legislation passing 67-37 in the Senate after previously being approved by the lower chamber of Congress. The bill now awaits President Claudia Sheinbaum’s signature to become law.

If enacted, Mexico will join a small group of countries worldwide that enforce criminal penalties for selling vaping products, signaling a strong stance against electronic cigarettes in the interest of public health.

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Purpose of the Law

Members of President Sheinbaum’s Morena party argued that the legislation is necessary to protect young people from the health risks associated with vaping. Advocates say the law closes legal loopholes that have allowed vaping devices to be promoted as safe alternatives to traditional smoking, despite growing evidence of their harmful effects.

Senate President Laura Itzel Castillo emphasized the law’s scope, stating:

“Electronic cigarettes and other similar systems or devices are now prohibited under this legislation.”

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Opposition and Concerns

Critics of the bill warn that its vague language could lead to misuse or overreach by authorities, potentially criminalizing minor infractions or targeting small business owners. Opponents also argue that the law could drive the vaping market underground, making enforcement more difficult and potentially unsafe for consumers.

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Vaping in Mexico

An official 2023 survey on smoking in Mexico estimated that 2.1 million people out of a total population of approximately 132 million use vaping products. The law is expected to directly impact sellers and distributors, particularly those targeting young consumers.

Health experts in Mexico have long raised concerns over the increasing popularity of vaping among teenagers and young adults, citing studies linking e-cigarette use to long-term respiratory and cardiovascular issues.

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Global Context

Mexico’s decision aligns with a growing international trend of countries enacting strict regulations or bans on e-cigarettes, including criminal penalties for unauthorized sales. Advocates argue that such measures are critical in curbing youth nicotine addiction and protecting public health.