Panama’s e-cig ban unconstitutional and violates health rights, claims lawsuit

Panama's ban on the use, sale and import of e-cigarettes is unconstitutional, according to the Panama Association for theReduction of Damage by Tobacco Use (ARDTP), who filed a lawsuit with the Supreme Court. They argue that the ban infringes on citizens' health rights by denying access to less harmful nicotine and tobacco alternatives, citing issues with the parliamentary process. Tomás Sánchez, ARDTP President, says a study reveals a surge in the illegal e-cigarette market post-ban, and 93% of nicotine products in Panama are now illegal. He said, “The worst part is that electronic cigarettes from unknown and questionable origins continue to be circulated throughout Panama.”