Kuwait has introduced new regulations governing tobacco and nicotine products, effective January 1, 2027. The rules set the minimum legal purchase age at 21, with retailers required to verify customers’ ages using civil ID or another approved method. The regulations cover cigarettes, e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products, nicotine pouches and other nicotine-delivery systems.
Health Minister Dr Ahmed Al Awadhi issued Ministerial Resolution No. 237 of 2026, establishing a broad regulatory framework covering the import, manufacture, packaging, distribution, sale, display, advertising, promotion and use of tobacco and nicotine products.
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The regulations will prohibit online sales, deliveries, free samples, gifts and promotional offers to anyone under 21. Sales through websites, mobile applications, social media platforms and delivery services will also be banned. Tobacco and nicotine products cannot be sold or displayed in schools, universities, healthcare facilities, government institutions, sports clubs, youth centres and other facilities serving young people.
Advertising and promotion will be prohibited across traditional and digital media, including social media, influencers, billboards, exhibitions and events. Products must be registered and approved by the Ministry of Health, while products designed to attract children, including cartoon-themed packaging and designs resembling sweets or drinks, will be prohibited.
The framework marks a major strengthening of Kuwait’s tobacco-control measures, with a focus on youth protection, online access and emerging nicotine products.
