Illustration of vaporisers collected during a clean-up. (Wikimedia)
Singapore authorities stepped up efforts to curb illegal vaping in the first three months of 2026, seizing more than 36,000 vaporisers and related parts. Between January 1 and March 31, a total of 2,589 people were caught and penalised for possessing or using the devices. Data from the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) showed that 2,212 offenders were using regular vaporisers. The remaining 377 cases involved etomidate vaporisers.
Joint enforcement operations carried out by the ICA and the Health Sciences Authority also uncovered 24 smuggling cases at Singapore’s air, land and sea checkpoints. Authorities prosecuted 11 people in court for smuggling offences linked to vaping products. Another 13 suspected sellers are currently under investigation. Officials said the operations aim to stop the illegal import and sale of vaporisers.
In parallel, the government is also increasing education and awareness efforts to prevent vaping, especially among youth. Since September 1, 2025, the Ministry of Education has strengthened lessons in schools and Institutes of Higher Learning about the dangers and illegality of vaping. Topics such as addiction, common myths about vaping and ways to resist peer pressure are integrated into subjects like science and physical education.
Public education campaigns are continuing to inform people about the health risks of vaping. From December 2025 to March 2026, the Health Promotion Board released a five-part video series featuring experts who explain vaping myths, nicotine addiction and possible health dangers. The series also gives advice on managing withdrawal symptoms and avoiding peer pressure. Authorities said the campaign supports wider efforts to reduce vaping.
Support is also available for people who want to quit vaping. Members of the public can join the government’s QuitVape programme or contact the QuitLine for guidance. Individuals who voluntarily seek help will not face penalties or receive an offence record. However, those who are caught vaping separately will still face the legal penalties.
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