🚨 Vaping in Vietnam is completely illegal as of March 1, 2026.
This happened in two stages. On December 31, 2025 , Government Decree No. 371 came into effect, introducing fines for the use and possession of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco systems. On March 1, 2026, amendments to the Investment Law completely banned all commercial activity—manufacturing, sales, and imports. Now, both the mere possession of the device and the businesses associated with it are prohibited. On May 15, 2026, a new decree was issued, setting the record straight with hefty fines for the possession of e-cigarettes and vapes.
Vietnam has become the sixth ASEAN country and one of 43 worldwide to impose a comprehensive ban on vaping.
If you're planning a trip to Vietnam, check your luggage. Starting January 1, 2026, the country will introduce unprecedentedly strict measures against e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. Slipping through customs will become much more difficult.
⚠️ What happened?
According to National Assembly Resolution No. 173/2024/QH15, Vietnam has introduced a comprehensive ban on all types of "new tobacco products." While previously restrictions primarily applied to sales, the law now covers import, storage, and use.
These aren't just restrictions on sales in stores—they're a ban on even having the device in your pocket or suitcase.
🚫 What exactly is prohibited?
All categories of devices popular with tourists were banned:
Electronic cigarettes (Vape): Any types, disposable (“H”, HQD) and reusable systems, liquids for them.
Tobacco heating systems: Devices such as IQOS, glo, Ploom and similar devices.
Sticks and consumables: Sticks (HEETS, Fiit and others) are considered prohibited substances because they are used in heating devices.
Hookahs (Shisha): Import of hookah tobacco and the devices themselves is also prohibited.
Gases and substances: Including nitrous oxide ("laughing gas"), often used in nightclubs.
👮♂️ What are the risks for tourists?
Many travelers are accustomed to the fact that laws in Asia are strict, but "not always enforced." In this case, it's not worth the risk.
👮 Fines: A Table Without the Worries
| Violation | Fine (VND) | Fine (~USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Vaping/HTP Use | 3-5 million | $ 115 – 190 |
| The owner of the establishment who allowed the use | 5-10 million | $ 190 – 380 |
| Organization (cafe, hotel) - the same | up to 20 million | up to $ 760 |
| Small sale | 30-50 million | $5,300–$6,000 |
| Large import/trade | up to 3 billion | up to $6,000 |
| Organized import (criminal offense) | up to 15 years in prison |
The device is confiscated and destroyed on the spot , regardless of its value .
At the border: Customs reserves the right to confiscate any devices or sticks found.
Fines: Administrative fines are imposed for importing or attempting to smuggle (up to 2–5 million dong depending on the circumstances; for large quantities, criminal liability is possible).
In the city: Use ("vaping") in public places, hotels, and on the street is now illegal. Police have the right to confiscate the device and issue a fine for possession of prohibited items.
✈️ Specifically for tourists and expats
At customs: Airports in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang scan luggage, including for vapes. Devices are confiscated and issued a report.
In the city: Police have the right to check for vaping, for example, after a complaint at a restaurant or hotel. The fine is 3 to 5 million VND (~$115–$190) and the destruction of the device.
"Bringing it in for friends" is already classified as commercial importation, with corresponding consequences, including criminal prosecution.
A black market exists , but purchase, possession, and use are the responsibility of the buyer, not the seller. "I didn't know it was illegal" is not a mitigating circumstance.
📝 What to do if you have already purchased tickets Vietnam?
Leave your devices at home. Don't try to hide your IQOS or vape device in your luggage—scanners at Vietnamese airports (especially in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City) are highly sensitive.
Don't buy illegally. Despite the ban, vapes can still be sold illegally on the street. Remember: purchasing, storing, and using them is a violation of the law, for which you , not the seller, are responsible.
Switch to alternatives. Regular cigarettes are still permitted in Vietnam, as long as smoking regulations in public places are followed. Nicotine patches, chewing gum, and nicotine lozenges are not formally covered by the ban.
Save this reminder and forward it to your friends planning a vacation! Ignorance of the law is no excuse for having your favorite gadget confiscated and your mood ruined.
