Hong Kong will issue a HK$3,000 fixed penalty ticket to those carrying small quantities of alternative tobacco products in public from April 30, while larger amounts will incur a maximum fine of HK$50,000 and up to six months in jail. The amended tobacco control law also sets the stage for a future territory-wide ban, though no timeline has been announced.
Hong Kong authorities announced on Thursday that from April 30, individuals carrying small quantities of alternative tobacco products in public places for non-commercial purposes—not more than five e-cigarette pods, five millilitres of vape juice, 100 heat sticks, or 100 herbal cigarette sticks—will receive a HK$3,000 (US$383) fixed penalty ticket.
Those found with more than five vape pods or 100 heat sticks will face a maximum fine of HK$50,000 and up to six months in jail. Dr Manny Lam Man-chung, head of the Tobacco and Alcohol Control Office, said: “The government decided to implement the ban in phases, starting with public places, due to concerns about the enforcement challenges of banning the products in private residences.”
“We would consider the second phase if we run the first one smoothly,” he added. The amended tobacco control law also provides for a future territory-wide ban on such products, although no timeline has been set.
The measures aim to tighten control over e-cigarettes and similar items.
