Vaping is legal in many parts of the world, but far from everywhere. In recent years, several countries have introduced bans or extensive restrictions on e-cigarettes and vape products. The rules vary between countries and may cover everything from sales and import to possession and use.
If you use a vape, it is therefore important to be aware that legislation differs depending on where you are. What is legal in Sweden may be prohibited in another country.
Why do some countries ban vaping?
There are several reasons why some countries have chosen to restrict or ban vaping. In some cases, authorities refer to public health and the precautionary principle, while other countries have chosen to regulate or ban nicotine products in general.
Some countries have also expressed concern about young people's use of vape products, flavoured products and the rapid growth of the e-cigarette market.
The result is that the rules can differ greatly between different countries and regions.
Countries where vaping is prohibited
Several countries have introduced extensive bans on vaping and e-cigarettes. The bans may cover production, sales, import and, in some cases, even possession or use.
Examples of countries where vaping is prohibited or very heavily restricted:
- Singapore
- Thailand
- India
- Brazil
- Argentina
- Mexico
- Qatar
- Brunei
- Turkmenistan
- Oman
- Cambodia
- Panama
It is important to remember that legislation can change. A country that has a ban today may change its rules in the future, while other countries may introduce new restrictions.
Singapore has one of the world's strictest bans
Singapore has long taken a very restrictive approach to vaping. There, the sale, import, distribution and possession of vape products are prohibited. The country has also introduced sanctions against people who violate the rules.
Singapore is therefore one of the clearest examples of a country that has chosen to ban vaping on a large scale.
Thailand has strict rules regarding vape products
Thailand is one of the countries most often mentioned in connection with vaping because of its strict rules. The country has banned the sale and import of vape products, and the authorities have on several occasions pointed out that the rules also apply to visitors.
Thailand is therefore regarded as one of the most restrictive countries when it comes to vaping.
India introduced a national ban
India introduced a national ban on electronic cigarettes in 2019. The ban covers, among other things, the production, sale, distribution and marketing of e-cigarettes.
The decision was justified, among other things, by references to public health and the authorities' view of nicotine products.
Countries with restrictions instead of a total ban
Not all countries have chosen to introduce total bans. In many parts of the world, vaping is legal but regulated through legislation concerning, for example:
- Age limits
- Nicotine strengths
- Packaging requirements
- Marketing
- Sales channels
- Use in public places
Sweden, the United Kingdom, France, Germany and New Zealand are examples of countries where vape products are permitted but subject to specific regulations.
How often do the laws change?
Legislation regarding vaping is constantly evolving. In recent years, several countries have tightened their rules, while others have chosen to introduce clearer regulations instead of bans.
This means that information can quickly become outdated. If you want to stay up to date, it is therefore important to follow official authorities and local regulations.
What should you keep in mind?
If you use vape products, it is wise to check which rules apply in the country where you are. Some countries only ban sales, while others also restrict import, possession or use.
Are you planning to travel with an e-cigarette or vape? Then you can also read our guide on taking a vape abroad, where we explain what applies to air travel, luggage and the transportation of vape products.
Since legislation can change at short notice, you should always check the latest information from official authorities before visiting a new country.
Things to remember
Several countries around the world have chosen to ban vaping either completely or partially. Singapore, Thailand, India, Brazil and Argentina are some examples of countries with very restrictive rules regarding vape products. At the same time, vaping is legal but regulated in large parts of Europe and North America.
Since legislation changes regularly, it is important to always check the current rules with official authorities for the country you want to know more about. If you are planning to travel with a vape, we also recommend our guide on taking an e-cigarette abroad.
