Mexico Advances Legislation To Ban E-cigarettes：Severe Crackdown On Production And Sales, And Consumers Will Not Be Sentenced.

According to the news report by Mexicobusiness on December 16th,
Legislative progress: The Mexican House of Representatives passed the amendment to the General Health Law with 292 votes in favor and 163 against, prohibiting the production and commercialization of electronic cigarettes. The bill will be submitted to the Senate for review. The ruling coalition is expected to push for its final passage.
Regulatory focus: The law clearly stipulates that only the supply chain entities (production, import, distribution, and sales) will be held accountable. The use and possession of the product by consumers do not constitute a crime, and the bill will promote health risks through publicity campaigns.
Ban scope: It covers electronic cigarettes and "similar devices", including heating or vaping liquids, gels, oils, or synthetic substances (regardless of whether they contain nicotine), and completely prohibits advertising (both online and offline, and on radio and television).
Penalty severity: The maximum penalty for the violating entity is 1-8 years in prison and a maximum fine of 226,000 pesos.
Controversial focus: The opposition warns that the ban may push up the black market and benefit illegal organizations; supporters emphasize the protection of teenagers and public health, which is consistent with the WHO's position.
Alternative view: Advocates for harm reduction call for a replacement of the complete ban with standardized regulation, quality standards, and taxation. Studies suggest that if a consumption tax is imposed, the annual fiscal revenue could reach 6.94 billion pesos.