According to a report from zakon.kz on July 21, the President of Kazakhstan has recently signed a significant amendment to the country’s public health legislation, which officially came into effect on June 20. This revision introduces major changes to the “Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan on Public Health and the Healthcare System,” aiming to further strengthen public health protection efforts.

One of the most notable changes is the comprehensive ban on various vape-related products, including vapes, heated tobacco products, vape flavors, and e-liquids. According to the regional tax authority of Mangystau Region, Article 110 of the revised law clearly prohibits the import, production, sale, and distribution of all such products. The ban also covers smokeless tobacco, cigarettes with nicotine or tar content exceeding allowed limits, hookah tobacco and mixtures, and any related products that do not meet established sanitary requirements.

Kazakhstan’s Strict Penalties for Violations

To ensure effective enforcement of the new law, Kazakhstan has added Article 301-1 to its Criminal Code, which clearly defines the penalties for violating the ban.

Individuals involved in the sale or distribution of smokeless tobacco products, vapes, and related items may face:

• A fine of up to 200 times the monthly calculation index (approximately USD 1,716)
• An equal amount of corrective labor
• Up to 200 hours of community service
• Or detention for up to 50 days

Those who attempt to import or produce these prohibited products within Kazakhstan will face even more severe penalties:

• A fine of up to 2,000 times the monthly calculation index (approximately USD 14,777)
• Confiscation of assets and imprisonment for up to two years

The regional tax authority further clarified that if such violations are committed by a group or repeated offenders, the maximum penalty could be up to five years of imprisonment. Authorities are urging all individuals and businesses to comply strictly with the new regulations to avoid legal consequences.

SP2S will continue to follow vape-related policy developments around the world. Follow us to learn more about industry updates.