Le Petit Dépanneur : List of countries where vaping is banned

Unfortunately, because it is too closely associated with the image of tobacco and smoking, vaping suffers from a terrible reputation in certain countries. Are you heading off on holiday soon and thinking of taking your vape with you? Be aware that depending on your destination, it may be strongly advisable to leave your e-cigarette at home. From one continent to another, and even between neighbouring countries, the differences in how vaping is treated can come as a surprise. In many of the countries where the e-cigarette is banned or strictly regulated, breaking the rules can expose you to very serious risks. Thailand is a well-known example, being the only country to have imprisoned a tourist for using an e-cigarette. That is the most extreme case, but other countries may impose heavy fines for vaping, or confiscate your equipment and e-liquids.

In Europe, vaping very often follows the same restrictions as tobacco, such as the ban on vaping in public places. Some countries are campaigning for, or have already adopted, a ban on flavours (leaving only tobacco flavours available). Worth knowing if you need to stock up while you're away.

The political context of each country should also be monitored. The rules governing e-cigarettes can change, including within the EU. Finally, your means of transport should also be looked into so that you are fully aware of the rules in force. That is why, to help you prepare for your holiday with peace of mind and avoid finding yourself on the wrong side of the law when vaping abroad, Le Petit Vapoteur has drawn up the list of countries where the e-cigarette is banned in 2024.

Countries where the e-cigarette is strictly banned

In these countries, vaping is strictly prohibited, with significant penalties: confiscation of equipment, fines, imprisonment. Local authorities enforce these measures with particular rigour to deter any offence, demonstrating their firm commitment to "public health" and compliance with national regulations.

Argentina - Brazil - Brunei - Cambodia - Colombia - Egypt - Hong Kong - Mauritius - India - Jordan - Syria - Kuwait - Lebanon - Laos - Mexico - Nepal - Oman - Qatar - Seychelles - Singapore - Taiwan - Thailand - Turkey - Panama - Uruguay - Venezuela - Jamaica - Saudi Arabia - Nicaragua - Suriname - Sri Lanka - Iran - Iraq - Uganda - Ethiopia - The Gambia

The severity of the penalties varies from country to country.

Countries that ban the sale and import of vaping products

In the following countries, the sale and import of vaping products such as e-cigarettes and e-liquids are prohibited. However, vaping itself remains possible, except in certain places and under certain conditions.

Vietnam: Strict ban in public places, including outdoors, with possible fines.

Indonesia: With a handful of vape shops mostly concentrated in Bali, the e-cigarette has been subject to heavy taxes since 1st January 2024. Vaping is treated in the same way as tobacco products in Indonesia.

China: In the home country of the e-cigarette, all flavours except tobacco have been banned since 2022. Only e-cigarettes with pre-filled cartridges (disposables) can be found locally.

Philippines: Vaping is allowed except in public places. It is recommended to follow the local rules, as penalties can range from a fine to a four-month prison sentence! Only tobacco and menthol flavours are available locally.

Norway: Vaping is permitted, except in public places; however, nicotine products are only allowed with a medical prescription! The sale of vaping products is banned in Norway.

Countries where vaping is possible, but under certain conditions

United Arab Emirates: Bringing your e-cigarette into Dubai is permitted. The situation is unclear for the rest of the country, with possible confiscations at airports. Strict regulations apply in public places. Vape shops can be found in Dubai. CBD products are prohibited throughout the country.

United States: Regulations vary from state to state, so it is advisable to check the rules for your destination. The states that treat vaping as a tobacco product are the strictest (banning flavours, for example). This is the case in New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Utah, West Virginia and Wyoming. As you will have gathered, only tobacco-flavoured e-liquids are allowed there.

Canada: Vaping is perfectly possible in Canada, but the rules on where it is allowed vary from one territory, province and even city to another.

Australia: While you may bring your bottle of nicotine e-liquid for personal use, local legislation varies by state or territory. Nicotine for vaping is prohibited in Queensland, New South Wales, Tasmania and Victoria.

Japan: Vaping is possible, but only without nicotine. Nicotine derivatives are classed as pharmaceutical products. The sale of vaping products containing nicotine is banned.

As you will have gathered, the e-cigarette is not welcome everywhere in the world. Before travelling abroad, it is therefore essential to check the official local regulations to avoid serious penalties that could ruin your trip.

NB: Vaping is possible in the countries not listed above; however, it is still recommended to check beforehand (embassies, airlines, etc.).

Further reading:

https://www.routard.com/dossier-pratique-sur-le-voyage/cid137941-cigarette-electronique-quels-sont-les-pays-qui-l-interdisent.html

https://oneshotmedia.fr/2023/03/06/vape-voyage/

Pascal