Singapore has significantly tightened its laws regarding vaping, with new legislation passed on March 6 and expected to take effect May 1. The amended Tobacco and Vaporisers Control Act, formerly known as the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act, aims to strengthen enforcement against vaping and particularly Kpods – vapes laced with the anesthetic agent etomidate.
Increased Penalties and New Offenses
The new laws introduce substantially increased penalties for vape-related offenses. Users now face fines of up to $10,000, a five-fold increase from the previous maximum of $2,000. Sellers could be fined up to $200,000 and face up to six years in jail, whereas smugglers risk fines of up to $300,000 and nine years’ imprisonment.
The legislation also creates new offenses. Owners and occupiers of properties where prohibited vaping products are stored can now face up to three years in jail and a $100,000 fine for a first offense, with penalties doubling for repeat offenses. Individuals driving into Singapore with vapes in their vehicles can no longer claim ignorance as a defense; the onus is now on them to prove they were unaware of the devices.
Focus on Etomidate and Vulnerable Individuals
The legislation addresses the growing concern surrounding Kpods, which contain etomidate. Etomidate was temporarily listed as a Class C drug in September 2025 and the new Act lists etomidate and its analogues under a new category of specified psychoactive substances (SPS). The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) is now authorized to issue rehabilitation orders to individuals believed to have consumed SPS, and repeat offenders could be sent to a Drug Rehabilitation Centre.
Adults who involve young people or vulnerable persons in the smuggling or supply of Kpods face particularly harsh penalties: up to 20 years in jail and up to 15 strokes of the cane. Any adult possessing a Kpod who fails to prevent a young person from using it could face up to 10 years in jail.
Enforcement and Prevention Measures
Beyond penalties, the new Act expands the definition of tobacco products to include nicotine analogues, addressing attempts by the tobacco industry to circumvent regulations. Authorities are also actively working to disrupt the supply chain, having removed over 10,000 online advertisements and blocked 27 vape websites since September 2025. Entertainment venues, such as clubs and bars, are now required to prevent vaping on their premises and eject patrons who violate the rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Kpod?
A Kpod is a vape laced with the anaesthetic agent etomidate.
What happens if I am caught vaping in Singapore after May 1?
You could face a fine of up to $10,000.
What is the penalty for smuggling vapes into Singapore?
Smugglers can be fined up to $300,000 and jailed for up to nine years.
As vaping laws evolve, will these measures be enough to curb the practice and protect public health remains to be seen?
