Singapore will step up its fight against vaping by treating it as a drug-related offence and imposing much tougher penalties, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced during his National Day Rally speech on August 17.
Vaping has been banned in Singapore since 2018, with current laws carrying a maximum fine of $2,000 for possession, use, or purchase. But PM Wong said fines alone are no longer sufficient, as many vapes entering the country are laced with addictive and harmful substances such as etomidate. These devices, he warned, are simply delivery tools for more dangerous drugs. “Right now, it is etomidate. In future, it could be something worse – stronger or far more dangerous drugs,” he said.
Under the new approach, etomidate—currently controlled under the Poisons Act—will be reclassified as a Class C drug. This means those caught vaping with such substances could be placed under supervision and rehabilitation, similar to drug abusers, while sellers will face jail sentences and much harsher punishments.
PM Wong stressed that the Government will act on three fronts: stronger enforcement, nationwide public education, and rehabilitation support. Education campaigns will start in schools, higher learning institutions, and national service, while enforcement agencies will intensify efforts to clamp down on smuggling and distribution.
The Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Health will jointly lead the effort, with support from other government agencies in what PM Wong described as a “whole-of-government” response. He added that ministries are already working on the new measures and will share further details soon.
