Vape bans and tougher rules: the South Caucasus takes different paths
November 03, 2026 by 2firsts.com
Vape bans and tougher rules: the South Caucasus takes different paths
Azerbaijan, Armenia and Georgia are taking markedly different approaches to nicotine regulation across the South Caucasus.
Azerbaijan's nationwide vape ban has raised concerns about illicit sales, while Armenia is introducing tighter technical standards and higher excise duties. Georgia has avoided sweeping vaping restrictions, despite calls for tougher controls, while offering preferential taxation to domestic cigarette manufacturers.
These contrasting policies highlight the challenges of balancing youth protection, market oversight and tobacco harm reduction. Their longer-term outcomes may offer valuable insights into how regulation affects access to lower-risk nicotine alternatives and the growth of illicit markets.
