Myanmar has outlawed the import, sale and use of e‑cigarettes and electronic shisha, joining a growing list of Southeast Asian nations tightening controls on vaping.

The Ministry of Health confirmed the ban on 18 February, enforced under the Essential Supplies and Services Law. It covers all aspects of trade and consumption, from importation and storage to possession and use. Officials said the move was aimed at protecting young people, warning that e‑cigarettes contain addictive nicotine, heavy metals and toxic substances that can directly damage the lungs.

Myanmar’s decision mirrors tough stances in neighbouring countries. Thailand has banned e‑cigarettes since 2014, with offenders facing fines or jail. Vietnam introduced a complete ban in January 2025 under Resolution 173/2024, making vaping illegal nationwide with penalties ranging from heavy fines to prison terms. Malaysia is preparing for a full ban by mid‑2026, with legislation already agreed in principle. Laos has announced plans to classify e‑cigarettes as prohibited substances under its Drug Prevention and Control Law, and has already shut down hundreds of online vape stores.

The regional trend reflects mounting concern over youth addiction and public health risks.

While vaping is often marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, health authorities across Southeast Asia argue the opposite, citing evidence of lung damage and long‑term dependency.

For Myanmar, the ban marks a decisive step in aligning with its neighbours’ restrictive policies. Facilities selling or distributing e‑cigarettes have been ordered to close, and enforcement measures are being rolled out nationwide.

As the crackdown spreads across the region, public health officials hope the bans will curb rising use among young people. But critics warn that prohibition may drive vaping underground, creating new challenges for regulators.

-2026-02-21

9 minutes ago, geovalin said:

While vaping is often marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, health authorities across Southeast Asia argue the opposite, citing evidence of lung damage and long‑term dependency.

Ridiculous. Lung damage? Yes, of course. Inhaling smoke will cause some damage to your lungs. Dependency? Yes, of course. Vapes contain one of the most addictive substances being nicotine. To say vapes are worse than tobacco/cigarettes, however, is simply a lie and is being told for two reasons. Tax revenue and protecting the tobacco industry.

As for "...critics warn that prohibition may drive vaping underground, ..." this is exactly what's happened here in Thailand.

Kipling's Burma girl preferred a 'whackin' white cheroot'.

Let me guess, regular cigarettes are still legal? Thought so! Their hypocrisy knows no bounds.