Vaping is a popular habit practiced by people across the globe. According to studies, it is only a matter of time until vaping surpasses smoking, which has become less popular. Although vaping is advertised as a healthier alternative to smoking, there are numerous laws regulating its manufacture, distribution, and use. This is mainly because vaping poses some health risks to vapers.
These laws and regulations change from one region to another. As such, every enthusiast should go through these regulations to acquaint themselves with the regulations especially if they love traveling to various destinations.
General Laws
Just like cigarettes, vaping devices and accessories cannot be sold to people under 18 years old. Actually, some countries require one to be over 21 years old to buy these products or even access the websites. Manufacturers and distributors of vaping products are supposed to have appropriate permits after going through various assessments.
Actually, it is illegal to advertise these products on national TV and other platforms across many countries in the world. Let us look at vaping laws in major regions of the world.
· North America – the FDA is the main regulating body in the USA. Vaping devices and other related nicotine-based devices are treated as tobacco and, therefore, are subjected to tobacco laws. There are minor variations between states. When marketed for therapeutic purposes, the authorities subject them to no restrictions.
· The United Kingdom – only the advertisement of electronic cigarettes and their accessories is heavily restricted. If you are interested in buying the best vaping products, it is up to you to dig this information up online. Actually, you can buy e-cigarettes and accessories from a reputable website with ease.
· Other European countries – European Tobacco Products Directive (EUTPD) is in charge of e-cig regulations in the region. Vaping is increasingly popular throughout many European countries.
· South America – most countries like Argentina and Brazil have banned the distribution and advertisement of these products. They have laws giving the actual guidelines in different acts. Those who break these laws can be sued in a court of law.
· Australia and New Zealand – these countries are no different from other regions of the world. They have laws regulating the manufacture, sale, and advertisement of vape products. In Australia, nicotine is classified as a poison unless it is used for therapeutic purposes.
· Africa – some countries have yet to develop laws to regulate vaping. In the meantime, vaping is often regulated under tobacco laws or medical laws if it is done for therapeutic purposes.
· Asia – countries in this region treat e-cigarettes as tobacco products. They simply subject them to the laws regulating tobacco in their countries.
Conclusion
If you are about to travel to any of the countries in these regions, it is important to read specific laws to avoid being in trouble once you are there. You might be surprised that you will have more freedom vaping in some countries than in others. But above all, ensure that you are sensitive to the people with whom you interact.