Vietnam has joined the Maldives in banning the import and use of vapes and e-cigarettes starting January 2025. But which other popular tourist destinations have similar restrictions? Here’s a breakdown of where vaping is prohibited and where it’s allowed.
Vietnam and the Maldives: Strict Vape Bans
Starting January 1, 2025, Vietnam will enforce a nationwide ban on the import, production, sale, and use of e-cigarettes and vapes. Penalties include fines of up to 2 million Vietnamese dong (approximately $80 USD) for personal use and up to 3 billion dong (over $120,000 USD) or 15 years in prison for commercial activities. Tour operators advise against bringing vaping devices or components, as even possession could be considered a violation.
Similarly, the Maldives imposed a ban on all vaping materials in mid-November 2024, with full enforcement beginning December 15. Customs officials confiscate such items upon entry, though tourists can reclaim them at Velana International Airport before departure.
Southeast Asia: A Vape-Free Zone
Thailand has prohibited e-cigarettes since 2014, covering all types of vaping devices, including heated tobacco systems. Violators face hefty fines or up to five years in prison. Singapore also enforces strict rules, with fines up to 2,000 SGD ($1,500 USD) for possession and 10,000 SGD ($7,500 USD) or six months in jail for importation. Even transit passengers are subject to these penalties.
In Hong Kong (China), non-tobacco smoking products like vapes are banned, though traditional cigarettes are allowed. Taiwan (China) also prohibits the import of e-cigarettes and liquids, requiring declaration upon entry. India imposes a one-year jail term or a fine of up to 100,000 INR ($1,200 USD) for importing vaping devices.
Latin America: Widespread Restrictions
Cuba bans all types of e-cigarettes and hookahs, with confiscation at airports. Uruguay, Colombia, Argentina, Panama, Brazil, and Mexico also prohibit the import and use of such devices.
Middle East and North Africa: Mixed Policies
In Dubai (UAE), vaping is allowed but strictly regulated, with designated smoking areas. However, Jordan, Oman, and Qatar ban the import and sale of vaping devices entirely. Egypt, on the other hand, permits personal use of vapes.
Turkey allows personal import of e-cigarettes but restricts their use to designated areas. Australia has banned all vape imports since March 2024 without a special license.
Central Asia and the Caucasus: Varied Approaches
Kazakhstan banned the sale and import of vapes starting June 20, 2024. Kyrgyzstan will enforce similar restrictions from July 1, 2025, with fines of 150,000-200,000 KGS ($1720-$2300 USD) for violations. Uzbekistan is considering a ban, while Tajikistan, Armenia, and Azerbaijan currently allow vaping. Georgia permits personal use but restricts vaping in public spaces.
Eastern Europe: Potential Changes Ahead
Belarus has no current restrictions on vaping devices, but a draft law is under discussion. Russia is also considering a ban on vape imports, with legislative proposals expected by the end of the parliamentary session.
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