In the early 2010s, vaping was marketed as the healthy alternative to smoking. Fast forward to 2026, and the global landscape has shifted dramatically. What was once a trendy accessory is now considered a high risk liability in many parts of the world.
Travellers be aware, vaping in some countries could land you in a jail cell, leave you with a huge fine, or even subject you to corporal punishment. We've put together a guide on the countries cracking down hardest on vaping this year.
Singapore: The Global Leader in Vape Enforcement
Singapore has long been known for its fine city reputation, but its stance on vaping is particularly aggressive. As of late 2025 and into 2026, the city has ramped up its approach to eliminate vapes entirely.
- The Law: Possession, use, and purchase are strictly prohibited.
- The Fines: First time offenders caught possessing a vape face an immediate fine of S$2,000.
- The Extreme (Caning): While simple possession usually results in a fine, the law takes a dark turn for traffickers. If a vape is found to include controlled substances (such as etomidate, which saw a massive crackdown in September 2025), importers and sellers can face:
- 3 to 20 years in prison.
- 5 to 15 strokes of the cane.
Thailand: The Tourist Trap for Vapers
Thailand remains one of the most dangerous places for unsuspecting tourists to pull out a vape. Despite its relaxed reputation in other areas, the Thai government views e-cigarettes as a major public health threat.
- The Law: A total ban on the import, sale, and possession of all vaping equipment.
- The Jail Time: Technically, you can be sentenced to up to 10 years in prison for importing vaping goods (which includes bringing one in your suitcase).
- The Reality: Most tourists are hit with on the spot fines ranging from 20,000 to 30,000 Baht (approx. $600–$900). If you cannot pay or if the police decide to escalate, you can be detained and deported.
Australia: The Prescription-Only Fortress
In 2024 and 2025, Australia essentially turned vapes into prescription only medical products. Tourists can take a small personal supply but without a valid prescription there is a risk of them being seized.
- Quantity Limits: You are allowed a maximum of 2 vapes for personal use, 20 accessories (pods) and 200ml of liquid.
- Device Safety: Vapes must be in your carry on bag, not checked luggage due to battery safety.
India: The Nationwide Prohibition
India implemented a sweeping ban in 2019 that has only solidified by 2026. The government cites the protection of youth as the primary driver for its zero tolerance policy.
- The Law: Complete ban on production, manufacture, import, export, transport, sale, distribution, and storage.
- The Penalties: First-time offenders can face up to 6 months in jail and/or a fine of ₹50,000. Subsequent offenses can lead to 3 years of imprisonment.
Middle Eastern Restrictions: Qatar and Beyond
While the UAE has regulated and legalised vaping, neighbouring countries have moved in the opposite direction.
- Qatar: Vaping is strictly illegal. Being caught with a device can lead to a fine of 10,000 QAR (approx. $2,700) or up to 3 months in prison.
- Lebanon & Jordan: While enforcement varies, the sale and importation of e-cigarettes are technically prohibited, with customs officials frequently seizing devices at the border.
Quick Reference: Harsh Penalties by Country (2026)
| Country | Status | Maximum Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Singapore | Banned | S$2,000 fine for use |
| Thailand | Banned | Fines of up to 30,000 THB or up to 10 years prison |
| India | Banned | Up to 3 years prison |
| Mexico | Banned | Fines of up to $12,000 USD and confiscation |
| Vietnam | Banned | Fines of up to 3-5 million VHD and confiscation |
Top Tip for Travelers
Before you pack your bags, remember that ignorance is not a defence. Many countries use X-ray scanners specifically to look for the high-density batteries found in vapes. If you are traveling to Southeast Asia or the Middle East in 2026, the safest move is to leave the device at home.
Note: Laws regarding disposable vapes are changing almost monthly in Europe. The UK, France, and Belgium have all implemented bans on disposables as of 2025/2026 to curb youth usage.
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