The policies and regulations of Southeast Asian countries around vaping are strict and changing, with the implementation of sophisticated airport screening technology to detect e-cigarettes, vape liquids and heated tobacco products, as well as disposable devices, in both carry-on and checked luggage.
The repercussions can be much more severe for visitors. The possible consequences vary by country, but include large fines, long questioning by customs authorities, arrest at the airport, removal and in some instances, criminal prosecution. It is, therefore, imperative to know the regulations of the area before arriving as part of a trip to Southeast Asia.
Singapore Maintains One of the World’s Strictest Vape Bans
Singapore remains one of the strictest anti-vaping policies in the world. According to the country’s tobacco and vaporizer laws, it’s illegal to import, own, sell, distribute, or use vape products.
Special attention should be paid to anyone travelling direct to Hong Kong from Changi Airport or passing through. Pockets are checked for items and enforcement is not just restricted to visitors coming into Singapore but for some transit passengers who are going through.
Finally, enforcement has begun to be stricter, even for psychoactive vaping products in general. The authorities have issued such warnings numerous times for travelers before, and it’s a rule that ignorance of the law will not be a justification.
Thailand’s Ban Continues to Catch Tourists Off Guard
Thailand is one of the least well known locations regarding the subject of vaping. Although vape products are found in many nightlife districts and tourist centres in Thailand, it is not legal to import into, possess or use e-cigarettes within the country.
The airports such as Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang and Phuket International Airport ensure the necessary routine baggage checks are performed. Vaping devices are likely to be confiscated and fines given on the spot for visitors caught carrying it.
Authorities have warned parents and visitors that there is no local black market for vaping products. For those who are tourists, enforcement starts as soon as they land at the airport.
Cambodia Also Enforces Strict Restrictions
Vaping products are banned in Cambodia. In general, the importation, sale and usage of e-cigarettes is banned, and devices that are confiscated are retained by the customs for future use and potentially given to the National Health Service.
Summer visitors will be asked questions, fined or briefly detained if they are found to be in breach of the rules. Enforcement practices may differ from place to place, which has resulted in many travel experts recommending to avoid any vape products during a trip to Cambodia.
Vietnam’s Regulatory Environment Remains Uncertain
Vietnam’s situation in the southeast differs. Vaping has long been a no-man’s land, but there has been a growing chorus of calls for more regulations and regulation.
While travel gear traditionally hasn’t been as strictly monitored as in countries like Singapore and Thailand, travelers would be wise to pay attention to the fluctuating laws. Any changes in policy may have a dramatic impact on airport and border post enforcement.
Everyone intending to travel to Vietnam should check-in with the latest government advice before leaving.
Malaysia and the Philippines Take a More Regulated Approach
Vaping is now legal in Malaysia, although the country’s laws are still being worked out. There are continued debates with public health officials and industry stakeholders about future restrictions and regulations to protect tobacco use.
Vaping is also legal in the Philippines with the proper regulations. Most of the time, adults are allowed to bring their devices for personal use, as long as they meet the safety standards of the airline carry-on rules and home public-use policies.
Local rules may apply, so travelers need to know what those rules are at the place they are traveling to.
Indonesia Remains One of the Region’s Most Vape-Friendly Destinations
The vaping industry in Indonesia is still under government supervision and regulated. Vape products are readily available across the country and are taxed with excise tax and trade laws.
For most of them, tourists who come with personal vaping devices have less legal hurdles than those traveling from adjacent countries. However, passengers should still adhere to airline requirements for carrying batteries and any e-swing paraphernalia, even with regards to customs regulations.
Vaping in the area is relatively moderate, but still, the use of the vape is important and should be adhered to to the local law.
Why Has Airport Screening Become More Aggressive?
Vaping devices, batteries, cartridges and vape liquid containers can be readily found by modern airport security systems through baggage screening. Customs authorities have been much more active in detecting contraband as Southeast Asian governments have been toughening their enforcement actions.
Many travellers think and presume that if they carry their vape device on themselves in a discreet way, it won’t be discovered. In fact, with a sophisticated X-ray system and careful customs check, it is highly probable that devices will be found if the customs officials decide to search.
With increasingly dangerous borderline restrictions, travelers are never allowed to assume a vape will go undetected by airport security.
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