Public vaping ban kicks off next year

Cheng Wong

E-cigarettes will be banned in public spaces as early as the second quarter of 2026, with potential extensions to private areas and vaping devices depending on favorable outcomes, sources say.

It is also understood that a ban on flavored cigarettes will be implemented next year in two phases, prioritizing non-menthol flavors first, with menthol cigarettes to follow later, though no specific timeline has been set.

The SAR government proposed 10 tobacco control measures last year, prompting backlash from the business sector and smokers who criticized the complete ban approach as harmful to the nighttime economy. Despite the controversy, the Health Bureau plans to submit an amendment bill to the Legislative Council by the end of this month.

Sources said the ban on e-cigarettes and other alternative smoking products will be gradually expanded in two phases. The first phase will prohibit public use and initially regulate vape cartridges only. If successful, it will be extended to private areas and vaping devices.

Another key focus is combating illegal tobacco, with a trial starting mid-year to add identification labels on duty-paid cigarettes.

Authorities will increase penalties for smuggling - the maximum fine for buying, selling, or possessing illegal cigarettes will rise to HK$2 million and seven years in prison.

Travelers bringing more than 19 packs of duty-free cigarettes to the city will face a raised penalty per pack of over HK$8,000 once the regulations take effect.

Authorities will reportedly set up no-smoking zones within three meters of specified entrances and exits at hospitals, care homes, schools, and childcare centers.

Medical sector lawmaker David Lam Tzit-yuen has voiced out that the plan's implementation too slow, noting that e-cigarettes can serve as drug delivery devices and are highly concealable.

Retail sector lawmaker Peter Shiu Ka-fai warmed that banning flavored tobacco would affect waterpipe, popular in bars, potentially leading to business lost and prompting Hongkongers to travel northbound.

cheng.wong@singtaonewscorp.com