Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony has warned that Guyana must not allow decades of progress in reducing tobacco use to be undone by the growing appeal of sweet-flavoured vapes and colourful devices that expose users to addictive nicotine.

He made the statement in support of President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s recent decision to place restrictive measures on the importation of vaping products.

The Minister described the move as a critical public-health measure aimed at protecting children and young people from nicotine addiction and the potentially harmful effects of vaping.

“The Ministry of Health therefore fully supports the President’s action,” the Minister stated, adding that it would work with relevant agencies to strengthen enforcement, public education and prevention, while supporting people already dependent on nicotine.

The Minster warned that e-cigarettes can deliver highly addictive nicotine and expose users to potentially harmful substances, including toxic metals and chemical compounds. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable because their brains are still developing, making them more susceptible to nicotine dependence.

“We should not wait until thousands of Guyanese children are addicted to nicotine before we act,” the Minister stressed.

The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) welcomed the President’s decision, emphasising that commercial activity must be accompanied by a responsibility to protect public health and consumer safety.

The Chamber said the increasing accessibility of vaping products, particularly among school-aged children, raises serious concerns about exposure to nicotine and other potentially harmful substances.

“Commercial activity must be accompanied by a responsibility to protect consumer health and safety,” the GCCI stated, noting that trade must be balanced with the need for stronger regulatory intervention when products pose risks to consumers.

The Chamber also called for strengthened monitoring at ports of entry, clearly defined importation and exemption procedures, and consistent enforcement against unauthorised distribution.

It cautioned that inadequate oversight could create opportunities for illicit trade, undermining the intended public-health benefits of the restrictions.

The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha also endorsed President Ali’s decision, citing concerns about children’s health and nicotine addiction. The organization called for swift implementation, effective enforcement, public education and collective responsibility among parents, educators, businesses and communities to protect young people from harm.

The organisations have emphasized the importance of effective enforcement and prevention to ensure that the measures reduce young people’s access to vaping products and safeguard public health.