Public Health: Over 4,900 Vaping Devices Seized in 2025

The enforcement of the ban on electronic cigarettes is intensifying in Mauritius. Health and Wellness Minister Anil Bachoo stated on Tuesday, April 21, in the National Assembly that several measures are already in place to curb the use of vaping devices in the country, including enhanced controls and awareness campaigns.

In response to a parliamentary question from Labour MP Reza Saumtally of No. 10 (Montagne-Blanche/GRSE), the minister recalled that Mauritius began regulating the use of electronic cigarettes as early as 2008, restricting their importation to strictly personal use. Since 2023, these products have been completely banned under the Public Health (Restrictions on Tobacco Products) Regulations 2022. Mauritian legislation now classifies vapes among electronic nicotine delivery systems or non-nicotine systems, both of which are prohibited without distinction between disposable or rechargeable models.

Anil Bachoo specified that the enforcement of this ban relies on collaboration between the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA), public health and food safety inspectors, and the police. In 2025, 27,443 passengers were checked upon arrival at the airport. From January to April 16, 2026, 7,142 passengers have already been inspected. Authorities are utilizing baggage scanners, freight examinations, parcel inspections, and physical checks.

According to the figures provided, 4,927 vaping devices and accessories were seized and subsequently destroyed in 2025. As of April 16, 2026, an additional 1,155 units had already been intercepted.

At the ministry level, 59 operations were conducted in 2025 by ministry inspectors, with 1,280 businesses visited. Since the beginning of 2026, seven operations have already been carried out in 52 establishments.