Guyana to shut its ports to imported vapes
President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali announced on Saturday, October 17, 2026, in a nationwide address, that Guyana will restrict the importation of vaping products, citing growing use among children and young people and potential risks to public health. “This evening, I believe we are taking a decisive step in protecting our children, protecting our schools, and safeguarding our families, communities, and society,” he said.
The order will be signed by Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, under the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01. It will prohibit the importation of vapes of all kinds, except those approved by the Minister of Health or the relevant tobacco control authorities.
What the order covers, and what it spares
| Covered by the restriction | Could be exempt |
|---|---|
| All imported vapes, of every kind | Products approved by the Minister of Health |
| Recreational vaping products | Products approved by tobacco control authorities |
| Devices brought in for general sale | Legitimate medicinal or therapeutic uses that meet applicable laws and medical standards |
The restrictions primarily target recreational vaping products, while preserving the possibility of approval for legitimate medicinal, therapeutic, or alternative uses.
The pressure behind the announcement
The measure follows concerns raised by parents, teachers, religious leaders, and community members about increasing accessibility and use of vaping products, particularly within the school system. President Ali referenced warnings from the World Health Organization: toxic substances, respiratory problems, nicotine addiction that can affect brain development in children and adolescents, and risks during pregnancy, with long term consequences still a concern. Guyana is not the only country tightening protections aimed at young people; the UK youth vape rules set to land October 29 are driven by similar worries.
Business backs the ban, flags the enforcement test
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry welcomed the move but warned that enforcement must prevent illegal imports. It called for stronger monitoring at ports of entry and clear procedures for exemptions. Import channels are also how counterfeit devices slip into markets, which is why spotting fake vapes matters even in places with tight rules.
What happens next
No implementation date has been announced yet. Guyana already regulates e-cigarette sales and use under its 2017 Tobacco Control Act, which includes sales restrictions to minors and vaping restrictions in public places. The import order would extend that control to the point of entry itself.
Source: Guyana Department of Public Information, October 18, 2026.