Singapore is cracking down on public enemy number one
January 19, 2026 by bbc.com
Singapore is cracking down on public enemy number one
Singapore is cracking down on e-cigarettes like vapes and K-pods, banning them since 2018 to combat drug-laced products. Severe penalties now include fines, caning, and jail time. Customs officers are vigilant, finding hidden vapes in various vehicles at checkpoints. An extensive public health campaign warns of vaping dangers, with a hotline for reporting offenders. The government aims to prevent a rise in drug usage, particularly targeting youths. While the strict measures have support, some criticize the ban as excessive, believing adults should choose for themselves.
13.90% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 709,000 current smokers in Singapore 22.00% of men are current smokers but only 5.20% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR