Electronic licensing will be strengthened

Belarus plans to tighten requirements for licensing the sale of electronic cigarettes. Head of state Alexander Lukashenko noted that when similar devices were introduced in Russia, an already existing "epidemic" was observed, and Belarus, with open borders, cannot restrict their influx. He emphasized the need to balance the situation and make a decision on further regulation. Lukashenko said that personally he does not understand much about smoking and alcoholic beverages but intends to listen to specialists who "either smoke or have delved into this topic." The president stated his firm stance against both alcohol and smoking, highlighting health risks, including the link between smoking and lung cancer. He concluded his speech by saying the country intends to find "balance," discuss, and make the appropriate decision.