Singapore asks for public comment on proposal making possession of a vapor product illegal

Singapore is asking the public to comment on a proposal to raise the minimum legal age for smoking, as well as prohibit the purchase, use and possession of vaporizers and e-cigarettes beginning tomorrow (June 13).

The proposed changes to the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act include raising the minimum legal age for the sale, purchase, use and possession of tobacco products from 18 to 21, as well as closing a loophole in the existing rules regarding vaporizers and electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS).

Singapore’s Ministry of Health (MOH) said in a news release today that while the importation, distribution, sale and offer of sale for these were currently prohibited, it was not the case for the purchase, use and possession.

“As ENDS and vaporizers are durable rather than consumable goods, illicit trade in these products may result in a sizable pool of people who possess and use ENDS and vaporizers in Singapore, leading to entrenchment,” the ministry said, adding that similar loopholes exist for other emerging products such as shisha and smokeless tobacco.

A copy of the draft Amendment Bill is available on the MOH website. The public comment period ends at 5pm on July 10, the press release said.