2FIRSTS | Special Report | Belarus Rejects Vape Ban, Opts for Tighter Market Controls
Belarus will regulate rather than ban vapes, aiming to curb illegal imports and increase excise revenue through stricter licensing and wholesale controls.Summary
Belarus has decided against a complete ban on vapes, following President Lukashenko’s concerns that prohibition would encourage a black market and harm state revenue. Instead, authorities will implement stricter regulations, focusing on controlling wholesale trade and tightening licensing for imports and production. Approximately 77% of disposable vapes currently enter Belarus illegally, resulting in significant lost excise revenue – estimated at around 3% of the projected 2026 fiscal deficit. While retail outlets will remain open, they face potential penalties for selling substandard products, and lawmakers are considering criminal liability for sales to minors. The new approach aims to increase market transparency and prevent the circulation of harmful, unlicensed products, while maintaining a broad retail presence.
(Source：2Firsts)
