The e-cigarette, commonly known as a vape, was originally developed and produced as a substitute product to help people quit smoking. Today, e-cigarettes are produced in a variety of modern designs and are widely used among young people. At the same time, evidence has begun to emerge showing addiction similar to traditional cigarette dependence, as well as negative impacts on health.
According to a recent warning issued by the World Health Organization, there are now more than 100 million e-cigarette users worldwide, including no fewer than 15 million children. This trend is said to be fueling a new wave of nicotine addiction. Global studies state that children are, on average, nine times more likely to use vapes than adults. E-cigarettes, or vapes, deliver nicotine through electronic means for inhalation. As a result, children who use vapes may develop nicotine addiction from an early age, which can negatively affect their growth and development.
Countries have imposed strict bans on the sale, importation, and use of e-cigarettes and vaping products, and have enforced severe penalties, including heavy fines and imprisonment. The Ministry of Health in Myanmar issued Order 8/2026 dated 18 February 2026, prohibiting importation, exportation, sale, possession, storage, transportation, distribution, use, or consumption of e-cigarettes, products similar to e-cigarettes, related accessories, heated smoking devices, electronic shisha, as well as similar products and their related accessories, as restricted goods.
Under current circumstances, the use of e-cigarettes is no longer merely a substitute for traditional smoking; rather, it has become a means of developing nicotine dependence mixed with other chemical substances. The vapourized liquid (aerosol) used in e-cigarettes is combined with toxic chemicals and formulated in a variety of colours, scents, and flavours to attract users. As a result, they have become appealing even to girls and underage children. In addition, e-cigarette devices are produced and sold in stylish, modern designs and colours, creating the impression that using vapes is fashionable.
Although the State has not declared vapes to be a narcotic drug or a psychotropic substance, it has designated e-cigarettes as restricted essential goods to prevent any decline in the health of citizens and to proactively avoid potential consequences that may arise from vape use. Under the Essential Goods and Services Law, those who are currently selling, storing, or using vape products will be subject to legal action. Therefore, rather than risking their health and dignity, it is necessary to promptly cease the use, storage, and sale of vape products.
