Dhaka, Bangladesh – December 24, 2024 – Bangladesh has taken a significant step towards stricter tobacco control with the approval of the Smoking and Tobacco Products Usage (Control) (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025. The ordinance, approved today by the Bengal Advisory Council, represents a comprehensive overhaul of existing legislation and includes a complete ban on emerging tobacco products like e-cigarettes, electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), and heated tobacco products (HTPs).
The move, spearheaded by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, signals a firm commitment from the Bangladeshi government to curb tobacco consumption and address the significant public health burden associated with its use. The Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division has been tasked with immediate promulgation of the ordinance, according to a press release from the Ministry of Health.
Broad Scope of the Ban
The most impactful aspect of the ordinance is the outright prohibition of e-cigarettes, ENDS, and HTPs. This ban extends to the use, production, and marketing of these products, effectively eliminating the nascent vape industry within the country. Crucially, the ordinance also expands the definition of “tobacco products” to include nicotine pouches, further broadening the scope of the restrictions.
This decision places Bangladesh firmly in the camp of nations adopting a prohibitionist approach to harm reduction alternatives to traditional cigarettes. While proponents of the ban cite concerns over youth uptake and potential gateway effects, critics argue it will drive consumers towards the black market and remove potentially safer options for existing smokers.
Expanding Public Space Restrictions & Advertising Ban
Beyond the ban on emerging products, the ordinance significantly strengthens existing regulations. Smoking is now prohibited in all public places and public transport, with any Designated Smoking Areas (DSAs) requiring explicit government approval. The definitions of “public places” and “public transport” have also been broadened, suggesting a more expansive application of the smoking ban.
The ordinance also implements a complete prohibition on all forms of tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship. This includes point-of-sale displays and online marketing, a move that aims to reduce the visibility and appeal of tobacco products across all channels.
Increased Health Warning Size
To further deter consumption, the ordinance mandates an increase in the size of mandatory health warnings on tobacco product packaging from 50% to 75% of the packet surface. This substantial increase is intended to provide more prominent and impactful messaging to consumers.
Public Health Justification & Potential Consequences
The Ministry of Health estimates that tobacco use-related diseases cause over 130,000 premature deaths annually in Bangladesh. This staggering figure underscores the urgency of addressing tobacco consumption, and the government clearly views a comprehensive ban as the most effective solution.
However, the ordinance’s sweeping nature raises several questions. A complete ban on e-cigarettes and HTPs could lead to the emergence of a thriving illicit market, lacking quality control and potentially exposing consumers to dangerous counterfeit products. Furthermore, it removes access to alternatives that many smokers may find helpful in reducing or quitting their reliance on traditional cigarettes.
The success of this ordinance will depend on robust enforcement and a comprehensive strategy to address the potential consequences of driving the market underground. Vape Observation will continue to monitor the implementation of this legislation and its impact on the Bangladeshi tobacco landscape.
