On January 1, 2025, the Ministry of Commerce issued a notification banning e-cigarettes (electronic nicotine delivery systems) from the list of products prohibited for import in the Import Policy Order. Such a decision by the Ministry of Commerce is highly commendable for the development of public health. The alliance applauds this initiative of the government. The Bangladesh Anti-Tobacco Alliance thanks the Ministry of Commerce and all concerned for taking effective steps to protect the youth. The Bangladesh Anti-Tobacco Alliance believes that this government step will play a positive role in the overall development of public health and protecting the youth from new death traps.

E-cigarettes are mainly brought to Bangladesh as computer items or electronic items in baggage. They are being sold freely in shops near various schools and online. Which was also attracting children and adolescents. Through this notification, the Ministry of Commerce has banned the import of e-cigarettes, and initiatives have been taken to restrict their sale , distribution and use in Bangladesh. We believe that the government’s law enforcement agencies will strictly monitor and take necessary measures to prevent this health-harming product from entering Bangladesh through airports , customs or any other means .