Auditor's Chamber finds E. coli in drinking water and lack of basic amenities at railway stations

Kuwait has introduced an extensive set of new regulations governing the sale and distribution of tobacco and nicotine products to individuals under the age of 21. These rules were approved by Ministerial Decision No. 237 of 2026, issued by the Minister of Health, Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadi.

According to local Kuwaiti media, the new norms include a ban on selling tobacco and nicotine products in grocery stores to anyone who has not reached the age of 21. These measures are being taken as part of efforts to strengthen public health and reduce the harm associated with the use of these products—both in terms of health and in economic and social aspects.

The new provisions will come into effect on January 1, 2027. The ban covers all types of tobacco and nicotine goods, as well as nicotine delivery systems, including e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products and devices, nicotine liquids and cartridges, nicotine pouches, as well as oral and smokeless tobacco products, and any newly developed goods.

The sale, display, and distribution of these products will be prohibited in kindergartens, nurseries, schools, institutes, universities, colleges, and other public and private educational institutions. Furthermore, the ban extends to medical facilities, both public and private, ministries and institutions, sports clubs, wellness centers, youth centers, theaters, cinemas, and facilities for children and youth.

Sales will also be banned in grocery stores, mobile carts, temporary kiosks, at exhibitions, entertainment events, and in vending machines. Local Kuwaiti media indicates that the rules also prohibit sales through websites, applications, social media platforms, and delivery services, as well as at points of sale located within a 200-meter radius of educational institutions.

In cooperative societies and parallel markets, products may only be sold in specially designated areas under supervision, and they cannot be displayed in a way that allows customers direct access without staff assistance. The decision also prohibits the import, manufacture, distribution, sale, or storage of goods of unknown origin or those that do not meet approved specifications.

It is forbidden to promote products designed, packaged, or advertised to attract the attention of children and youth, as well as those that exceed approved limits for nicotine content, ingredients, or emissions. All goods must undergo registration and approval by the Ministry of Health; manufacturers and suppliers are required to provide information, including composition, nicotine concentration, country of origin, and batch data.

According to local sources, health warnings, including text and images, must occupy at least 50% of the main packaging area. Additionally, the decision prohibits advertising, promotion, sponsorship, free samples, gifts, and discounts on the specified products. E-cigarettes and heated tobacco products will be subject to the same restrictions as smoking in public and enclosed places where it is prohibited.

The Ministry of Health, in conjunction with relevant authorities, will oversee, monitor, and ensure compliance with the rules, including documenting violations.