Vietnam’s Ministry of Health has proposed fines ranging from 1 to 2 million VND ($40–$80) for individuals caught using e-cigarettes or heated tobacco products. This initiative follows Vietnam’s recent designation as the sixth ASEAN country to impose a complete ban on these products, a move aimed at safeguarding public health and ensuring social order.
According to the Legal Department of the Ministry of Health, the proposal is part of a broader effort to implement National Assembly Resolution No. 173, which addresses the regulation of harmful substances, including e-cigarettes. The ministry has submitted a draft action plan to the government, outlining measures to enforce the resolution. This plan, expected to be finalized by the first quarter of 2025, aims to protect community health while maintaining public safety. Simultaneously, amendments to Decree No. 117, which governs administrative violations in the health sector, are being developed to include provisions for stricter penalties on e-cigarette use and related activities.
Under the proposed measures, those caught using e-cigarettes in public spaces will face fines and may be required to participate in mandatory smoking cessation programs. Public officials who violate the rules could be reported to their workplaces for disciplinary action. The ministry emphasized that the ban extends beyond personal use to include the production, sale, import, and advertisement of e-cigarettes, enabling comprehensive enforcement. With appropriate oversight, authorities believe these measures will be effective in curbing the use of e-cigarettes across the country.
Globally, Vietnam joins 43 other nations that have implemented bans on e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. Among these, 39 countries have imposed total prohibitions on activities such as sales, advertising, and use. Singapore, for instance, has enacted stringent regulations, banning the import, sale, possession, and distribution of e-cigarette-like products. Violators in Singapore face fines of up to SGD 10,000 ($7,300), six months in prison, or both.
By introducing strict penalties and adopting international best practices, Vietnam aims to address the growing challenges posed by e-cigarettes, prioritizing the health and safety of its citizens while reinforcing its commitment to combating tobacco-related harm.
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Source: Vietnam Insider