KRG enforces ban on e-cigarettes, seizes thousands of devices
Under the new regulations, e-cigarettes are now prohibited in the markets, and local authorities have vowed to take legal action against those who defy the ban.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has intensified efforts to curb the use of electronic cigarettes (vapes), with both the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Interior enforcing a decision to ban their import and sale. The decision has been approved by many citizens concerned about the growing popularity of e-cigarettes, particularly among youth.
Under the new regulations, e-cigarettes are now prohibited in the markets, and local authorities have vowed to take legal action against those who defy the ban. Akar Mohammed, a local cigarette and hookah seller, supported the measure. "Dozens of men and children ask me about vapes and e-cigarettes every day," he said. "This decision is appropriate."
The use of e-cigarettes has surged, especially among teenagers and young adults, as they were initially believed to be a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes. However, recent studies have shown that e-cigarettes pose serious health risks, including the development of pneumonia and other lung-related issues.
In Erbil, the governor’s office has been leading the crackdown on e-cigarettes, announcing that more than 26,000 devices were seized and destroyed this month. Many were found hidden in shops and warehouses. Authorities are stepping up their efforts with increased inspections at checkpoints and markets, as well as monitoring online sales.
Erbil Mayor Nabaz Abdulhamid revealed on Aug. 19 that investigations have uncovered the illegal smuggling of e-cigarettes into Erbil from Sulaimani. "We want to control this phenomenon together," Abdulhamid said, emphasizing the need for collective action to tackle the issue.
Safin Qadir Rahman, Director of Health Care at the Ministry of Health, reiterated the government's commitment to raising awareness about the dangers of vaping. Speaking to Kurdistan24 on Friday, Rahman noted that vapes and e-cigarettes have been banned in the Kurdistan Region for some time, with ongoing campaigns to educate the public and seize illegal products.
