The Supreme Court of Panama is set to review a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the country’s ban on e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. The lawsuit, filed by the Panamanian Tobacco Harm Reduction Association (ARDTP), argues that the ban (Law No. 315) is unconstitutional. The case’s progression signals a potential reassessment of vaping regulations in Panama. The outcome could lead to amendments in the existing law, reflecting a risk-based approach to vaping products.
If the Supreme Court deems the unconstitutional statement valid, the 315 bill will return to the legislative body for modifications.
Once the bill is amended, it will be resubmitted to the Supreme Court to confirm its constitutionality. A proposed new law is being drafted to replace the current 315 bill, thereby supporting provisions based on “risk.”
This legal challenge reflects broader debates in Latin America over vaping regulations and their consequences, including the rise of black markets for nicotine products.