Latvia Constitutional Court to Release Opinion on E-cigarette Restrictions

According to a report from Tvnet on January 5th, the Constitutional Court of Latvia is set to issue an opinion in the summer of 2025 regarding legal restrictions on the sale of e-cigarettees containing flavoring ingredients. Following the implementation of this restriction at the beginning of 2025, it has been challenged by e-cigarette manufacturer Pro Vape.

According to the law, starting in 2025, the sale of e-cigarettes and alternative tobacco products containing flavoring ingredients will be prohibited. However, e-cigarette liquids and alternatives with imitation tobacco flavors will still be allowed for sale.

Pro Vape is asking the court to assess whether these revisions comply with the provisions of Article 105 of the Constitution. Article 105 of the Latvian Constitution states that every person in Latvia has the right to property, and the use of property must not contravene the public interest. Property rights can only be restricted in accordance with the law.

Pro Vape has stated that these regulations have forced the company to make arrangements for its future business decisions within a few months, thus infringing on its property rights.

The new regulations also include various restrictions on tobacco alternatives, such as prohibiting the purchase of these products through remote communication methods. In addition, the production and marketing of products resembling candies, snacks, and toys are also restricted.

The new law has increased the fines for selling tobacco products in violation of regulations, prohibiting the sale of such products to individuals under the age of 20. Violators will face fines ranging from 280 to 700 euros for individuals, and from 700 to 7100 euros for legal entities.

Pro Vape criticizes the new regulations, stating that they may make it easier for the illegal market to thrive, and pointing out that non-tobacco flavored products account for 90% of the market. The company says that this ban is essentially equivalent to a complete prohibition of e-cigarette products.

It is reported that Pro Vape was established in 2016 with a registered capital of 2800 euros. The main shareholders are Martins Yamonts, who holds 75% of the shares, and Edgars Pitzska, who holds 25% of the shares.