Association for Democracy and Human Rights lauds sweeping restrictions on vape imports

See full statement below: 

Association welcomes President Ali’s restrictions on vaping imports

The Association for Democracy and Human Rights (Guyana) Inc welcomes President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s announcement of sweeping restrictions on the importation of vapes and vaping products. The Association applauds this commitment to stronger public health safeguards, particularly for children and young people.

The President announced that Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh will sign an order under the Customs Act to restrict imports of all types of vapes, with exceptions requiring approval from the Minister responsible for health or the designated national tobacco control authorities. This represents a welcome response to concerns about products entering and circulating in Guyana without adequate oversight.

The Association commends the President for placing the welfare of citizens at the centre of this decision. His warning that uncertainty about long-term effects should not be treated as evidence of safety provides a clear basis for precautionary action. Protecting young people requires timely intervention when credible concerns emerge.

The concerns outlined by the President, including the potential for nicotine addiction among young people and exposure to harmful substances, reinforce the importance of effective regulation. Children deserve an environment that supports healthy development, backed by public education and meaningful safeguards against potentially harmful products.

The Association also welcomes the distinction between recreational vaping products and legitimate medicinal or therapeutic applications. The announced framework would allow medically justified uses where approved by the relevant health authorities and consistent with applicable laws, regulations and medical standards.

The Association encourages prompt formalisation of the announced restrictions, clear guidance for importers and retailers, and consistent enforcement once the order takes effect. Public awareness efforts should explain the measures and their purpose, with parents, schools, health professionals and community organisations helping young people understand the concerns surrounding vaping.

This announcement reflects the responsibility of government to listen to public concerns and act to protect people’s well-being. The Association celebrates President Ali’s leadership on this issue and calls for broad cooperation to translate the announced measures into lasting protection for Guyanese families.