Singapore completely bans e-cigarettes

From September 1, Singapore has officially banned heated tobacco products (IQOS and others) as well as electronic cigarettes, particularly K-pods and vapes containing etomidate. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Under the new law, importing, selling, possessing, or using electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco products in Singapore is strictly prohibited. Penalties for violations include:

• Possession or use — a fine of up to SGD 2,000;

• Sale or import — a fine of up to USD 10,000 or imprisonment for up to six months; repeated violations — fine of up to USD 20,000 or imprisonment for up to 12 months;

• Repeated violations may lead to mandatory rehabilitation and subsequent criminal liability.

Singapore considers K-pods as devices related to controlled substances. Etomidate is officially classified as a Class C drug. Possession or use may result in:

• Mandatory supervision and rehabilitation programs;

• Criminal liability for repeated offenses.

For smuggling — imprisonment from 3 to 20 years and 5–15 strokes; for sale and distribution — imprisonment from 2 to 10 years and 2–5 strokes.

The law applies to both Singaporean citizens and foreigners. Holders of student and work visas can also be fined. Violations may result in arrest, large fines, deportation, and denial of re-entry.

Uzbek citizens are strongly advised not to bring electronic cigarettes or K-pods into Singapore. These measures emphasize once again the importance of compliance with legal and tax-administrative regulations for tourists and workers abroad.