Mexico Outlaws Vaping: Will This Fuel the Black Market?

Mexico's House of Representatives has overwhelmingly voted in favor of banning vapes, electronic cigarettes, and illicit substances such as fentanyl. The vote, which saw 410 representatives in favor, 24 opposed, and zero abstentions, supports a constitutional reform initiated by former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.

The reform adds a new paragraph to the Fourth and Fifth Articles of the Political Constitution of the United Mexican States concerning Health Protection. The first addition mandates penalties for all activities related to electronic cigarettes, vapes, and similar devices, as well as the production, distribution, and sale of toxic substances, chemical precursors, and unauthorized synthetic drugs like fentanyl. The second addition prohibits any profession, industry, trade, or activity referenced in the new Fifth Paragraph of the Fourth Article.

However, the decision has faced opposition from some legislators. Iraís Virginia Reyes de la Torre, a representative of the Citizen Movement, openly vaped in the chamber, arguing that the ruling party was infringing on personal liberties due to its inability to manage public health policy effectively. She questioned the difference between buying a pack of cigarettes, vapes, or an electronic cigarette.

Gloria Elizabeth Núñez Sánchez, another representative from the Citizen Movement, warned that this ban could be a ticking time bomb for public health. She argued that it could potentially boost the black market, creating an environment ripe for the strengthening of criminal activity.