Although the electronic cigarette industry is still very new, it is legal in some countries, and there are no restrictions on its use by individuals. So much so that in some countries, e-cigarette use has become a kind of lifestyle. People, especially adult smokers, are turning to electronic cigarettes to break their addiction. However, some governments have imposed certain bans on electronic cigarettes. If you travel frequently or are considering buying electronic cigarettes from abroad, this article will be very helpful. In this article, we will broadly answer the questions: "In which countries are electronic cigarettes legal?" and "In which countries are electronic cigarettes banned?"
In our country, there is no law yet regarding electronic cigarettes and e-liquids. Therefore, there are no restrictions on individuals purchasing or using electronic cigarettes within the country's borders. People can freely use their electronic cigarettes in open areas or places where smoking is allowed. However, there are clear restrictions on purchasing e-cigarettes or liquids from abroad. In particular, there are restrictions on products that can pass through customs, and also, tax must be paid for each product exceeding a certain price. In this case, devices become quite expensive. If your aim is not to buy but to travel to the countries listed below, it is beneficial to know their laws.
- United States of America: In the USA, both the production of electronic cigarettes and liquids is very high, and the number of users is large. In this country, where both sales and use are legal, some restrictions were introduced in 2016. Only devices approved by the FDA are legal for sale in the country. However, if you purchased your device before 2016, the government does not impose any restrictions on its use.
- Argentina: In Argentina, as in our country, sales are not legal. However, the government has not imposed any restrictions on the use of electronic cigarettes by its citizens or tourists.
- Chile: In Chile, the situation is a bit different. In Chile, only approved devices and liquid types categorized as medical products are sold for both electronic cigarette sales and imports.
- Brazil: In Brazil, citizens are free to consume e-cigarettes or liquids; however, import or export is prohibited, and there are legal restrictions on sales within the country.
- Mexico and Colombia: In these South American countries, if you are a citizen or a tourist, electronic cigarette use or e-liquid consumption is permitted. However, the sale of such devices, spare parts, and liquid varieties within the country is prohibited, and organizations that sell them face severe sanctions.
In the aforementioned South American countries, generally, with the exception of Chile, no restrictions are imposed on individual use. However, there are clear restrictions on sales, import, and export within the country, and legal proceedings are initiated if these are violated.
In Which European Countries Are Electronic Cigarettes Legal?
The countries where the electronic cigarette industry is most developed are generally located in Europe. There are many e-cigarette factories and e-liquid production centers in Europe. Nevertheless, some variations can be observed from country to country.
- France: In France, both the production of electronic cigarettes and e-liquids is legal, and large companies exist. Similarly, there are no restrictions on consumption by citizens and tourists.
- Germany: Germany is highly developed in terms of e-liquids. Sales, including export and import, are completely legal; there are no restrictions. Likewise, the use of electronic cigarettes is extremely widespread within the country.
- United Kingdom: The UK is among the leading countries globally where electronic cigarette use is most prevalent. The sale of devices and liquids within the country is entirely legal.
- Netherlands: Here too, there are no legal restrictions on production, sale, or use.
In conclusion, the electronic cigarette industry is highly developed in European countries. Many different varieties are produced, both in terms of devices and liquids, and there are numerous factories. Furthermore, there are no restrictions on the use of electronic cigarettes by either tourists or citizens in these countries. In this article, we answered the question: "In Which Countries Are Electronic Cigarettes Legal?". If you are planning to travel abroad soon, it will be very advantageous to know the country's stance on electronic cigarettes in advance.