The Cambodian government has taken a definitive stance against electronic smoking devices, enacting a comprehensive ban on the import, advertising, sale, and use of all e-cigarettes and hookahs. This decisive move follows a public statement from Prime Minister Hun Manet in May, where he declared the country would not welcome any form of e-cigarette production or investment.

This new government decree, signed on October 21, solidifies the nation’s position. The primary goal is to foster a healthy, high-quality populace, which the government views as essential for Cambodia’s long-term socioeconomic development. The directive outlines a multi-faceted approach, assigning specific responsibilities to various government bodies to ensure the ban is enforced effectively and immediately.

A Coordinated Government Crackdown

To ensure the new policy is enforced swiftly and thoroughly, Prime Minister Hun Manet’s directive mobilizes several key ministries. The order explicitly instructs the Ministries of Interior, Economy and Finance, Commerce, Information, and Post and Telecommunications to take immediate action. Their collective mission is to halt the import, distribution, advertising, sale, and storage of these banned products across the nation.

The Ministry of Health has been tasked with a crucial public health role. It is responsible for creating and disseminating official guidelines that inform the public about the health risks and dangers associated with using e-cigarettes and hookahs. This educational campaign aims to build widespread awareness and discourage use.

This coordinated effort demonstrates a serious commitment from the highest levels of government to eliminate these products from the Cambodian market and public life.

Protecting the Nation’s Youth

A significant focus of the government’s directive is the protection of young people. The Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sport has been instructed to develop and implement specific educational and preventative programs. These initiatives are designed to create a zero-tolerance environment for e-cigarettes and hookahs within all educational and youth-oriented spaces.

The mandate extends to:

• Public and private educational institutions
• Teacher training colleges
• Dormitories and student housing
• Community learning centers
• Gymnasiums and sports stadiums
• Sports training facilities and competition venues

The policy aims to create a protective barrier around young Cambodians, ensuring that schools and recreational areas remain free from the influence of these electronic smoking devices and their chemical substances. By focusing on prevention and education, the government hopes to stop use before it starts.

Enforcement and Penalties

The government’s order includes strict enforcement measures that apply to everyone, from government officials to private business owners.

For Government Personnel

All ministries and state agencies must prohibit the use of these devices among their employees, including civil servants, police officers, military personnel, and contract staff. Government workers found using e-cigarettes or hookahs will face disciplinary action.

• First Offense: A verbal warning will be issued, and the device will be confiscated.
• Repeat Offense: A formal written warning will be given, and the individual must sign a commitment to cease using the products.

For Commercial Businesses

Businesses found to be involved in the distribution, sale, storage, advertising, or promotion of e-cigarettes or hookahs will face significant consequences, regardless of their primary business category.

• The business will receive a written warning.
• All related products and materials will be confiscated.
• The business’s commercial registration, license, or permit to operate will be suspended.

These strict penalties underscore the government’s resolve to completely eradicate the trade and use of these products within its borders.

A Health-Focused Future for Cambodia

Cambodia’s decisive action to ban e-cigarettes and hookahs represents a clear and strategic move to prioritize public health. By targeting imports, sales, and use while simultaneously launching educational campaigns, the government is taking a comprehensive approach to protect its citizens, particularly the younger generation. The enforcement measures are designed to ensure compliance across all sectors of society, signaling that Cambodia is committed to building a healthier future for its people.