Namibia proposes strict tobacco and vaping regulations

Proposed amendments to Namibia’s Tobacco Products Control Act of 2010 aim to strengthen protections against the health and environmental impacts of tobacco and emerging nicotine products. During public consultations in Windhoek, officials detailed measures that could include fines of up to N$500,000 or prison sentences of up to 10 years for various offences, such as advertising, selling to minors, and dealing in prohibited products.

The Tobacco Products Control Amendments Bill of 2026 seeks to prohibit the sale, distribution, and use of e-cigarettes, vapes, heated tobacco products, hookahs (shisha), and oral nicotine products like pouches, gums, and lozenges. The legislation also targets the manufacture, importation, and promotion of these items, including online advertising.

Proposed smoking restrictions would extend to a 50-metre radius around healthcare facilities, educational institutions, childcare centers, and public transport terminals. Smoking would also be prohibited within 50 metres of windows, doorways, and ventilation intakes in public places, and in all indoor or enclosed public spaces.

Stakeholders attending the consultation expressed concerns that an outright ban on products already in circulation might drive the market underground and encourage illicit trade.