Amendments Made to the Law on Tobacco Control After 13 Years www.montsame.mn
The draft law on amending the Law on Tobacco Control was approved on October 16, 2026.
Law initiator and Member of Parliament Nominchimeg Odsuren stated: "This law was a prime example of how laws can be discussed from multiple perspectives with fierce debate in the democratic parliament of Mongolia, which has 126 members. The State Great Khural makes decisions as a team. With this decision, I am glad that we made progress on the Law on Tobacco Control, which could not be updated for 13 years, and took a step forward to protect the health of our future generations. I express my gratitude to the Members of Parliament who united in vision, stood together, worked as a team, and participated in today's final voting. The law will enter into force on January 1, 2027. We will focus on its implementation to ensure that this law yields results, is effectively implemented, and fulfills our goal of reducing smoking by 13% in 2030–2031."
Meanwhile, Member of Parliament Ariunzaya Ayush noted: "Since cigarettes and electronic cigarettes (vapes) are equally harmful, they will be taxed equally and subject to the same regulations. Furthermore, fruit flavors, mint, and aromas are prohibited for both. Starting January 1, 2027, any flavored, aromatic, visually appealing, or fruit-flavored tobacco product will be prohibited for use in Mongolia. However, I want to emphasize that snuff, or traditional tobacco, is not affected in any way, and there are no restrictions or barriers against it."
This law is of great importance in reducing tobacco consumption, protecting public health, preventing diseases and deaths caused by tobacco use, and creating a healthy and safe environment.
The law includes the following key amendments:
Improving the regulation of electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and new nicotine-containing products;
Imposing restrictions on flavors, aromas, and other features that encourage tobacco use among youth;
Gradually increasing excise taxes on all types of tobacco products;
Strengthening oversight and accountability;
Incorporating provisions aimed at increasing the accessibility of healthcare services for quitting tobacco addiction and intensifying preventive activities.
The Ministry of Health will focus on ensuring the implementation of the law, strengthening cross-sectoral cooperation, improving citizens' health education, and expanding information, training, and awareness campaigns for tobacco prevention.
Published Date:2026-10-18





