Starting from late 2025, activities involving e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products in Vietnam will be subject to rigorous administrative sanctions under Decree 371/2025/ND-CP.
Legal definitions of next-generation tobacco The new regulation introduces specific technical standards to identify these products. E-cigarettes are defined as a combination of an electronic heating device and a liquid solution (with or without nicotine). Heated tobacco products, on the other hand, refer to systems that use electronic devices to heat specially manufactured tobacco without direct combustion. These detailed classifications provide a solid legal basis for authorities to enforce violations.
New penalty framework effective December 31, 2025 The government has stipulated specific fines for different types of violations as follows:
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For users: Individuals found using e-cigarettes or heated tobacco will face fines ranging from 3 to 5 million VND. In addition to the fine, violators are required to destroy the products.
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For enabling use: Individuals who own or manage premises (homes, businesses, etc.) and allow others to use these types of tobacco on their property will be fined between 5 and 10 million VND.
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For organizations: In cases where violations are committed by organizations, the fines will be double those applied to individuals (up to 20 million VND for enabling usage).
Broad investment and business ban In tandem with usage sanctions, the recently passed amended Law on Investment has officially added e-cigarettes and heated tobacco to the list of sectors prohibited from investment and business. This creates a comprehensive control loop—from market supply to end-users—aimed at minimizing the harmful effects of these products on public health.