For years, the vape scene in Ho Chi Minh City existed in a comfortable legal twilight. You could walk into a glitzy shop in Thao Dien, order a “fruit punch” pod, and puff away on the sidewalk of Bui Viện without a second glance from the police.

That era ended on December 31, 2025.

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the expat community and the nightlife industry, the Vietnamese government has officially stopped turning a blind eye. They have armed themselves with a new legal weapon: Decree No. 371/2025/ND-CP.

This isn’t just a “business ban” anymore. They are coming for the users.

The New Reality: VND 5 Million for a Puff

Previously, the war on e-cigarettes was fought at the borders and in the warehouses. Authorities targeted smugglers and illegal importers. But the new decree, which amends the previous administrative sanction laws (Decree 117/2020/ND-CP), puts the crosshairs directly on you—the individual holding the device.

Here is the cold, hard math:

To put that in perspective: that’s roughly the cost of a one-way flight to Bangkok or a week’s worth of high-end groceries.

But it’s not just about the money. The decree explicitly grants authorities the power to confiscate and destroy the device. That $200 custom rig you brought from home? Gone. That limited edition IQOS? Trash.

The “Venue Trap”: Why Your Landlord is Nervous

This legislation is designed to turn everyone into an enforcer. The government knows they can’t catch every vaper on every corner, so they are putting the squeeze on venue owners.

Under the new law, anyone who allows the use of e-cigarettes or heated tobacco products on premises they manage or own faces a fine of VND 5,000,000 to VND 10,000,000.

If you are renting a commercial space for a bar, cafe, or coworking space, this is a massive liability.

• For Individuals (Landlords/Managers): Up to VND 10 million fine.
• For Organizations (Corporations): The fine doubles. That’s up to VND 20 million ($760 USD) for letting a customer vape in your lobby.

Expect to see “No Vaping” signs going up in places that previously didn’t care. Your favorite rooftop bar isn’t trying to be uncool; they are trying to avoid a fine that could wipe out their profit for the night.

Why Now? The “Health Crisis” Narrative

Why the sudden crackdown? The Ministry of Health has been lobbying for this for years, citing a terrifying spike in usage among Vietnamese youth.

According to government data, usage rates among students aged 13-17 skyrocketed from 2.6% in 2019 to 8.1% in 2023. The narrative has shifted from “harm reduction” to “protecting the next generation.”

Vietnam is now the 6th country in ASEAN to issue a total ban, joining the strict ranks of Singapore and Thailand. The message is clear: The government views these devices not as a smoking alternative, but as a gateway drug for the youth.

Check out this short video explaining official fines for e-cigarette use in Vietnam.

The Saigon Cribs Advice: Don’t Be the Example

For our clients—executives, teachers, and entrepreneurs—this is a “heads up” moment.

Foreigners often assume a level of immunity in Vietnam, believing that local police won’t bother with the paperwork for minor infractions. Do not make that mistake with this law.

We are entering the pre-Tet period, a time when police enforcement typically ramps up across the board to ensure “social order.” Being the foreigner arguing with a police officer about your vape pen is a situation you want to avoid.

The Bottom Line:

• Leave it at home: If you are flying into Vietnam, do not bring e-cigarettes or e-liquids in your luggage. Customs enforcement is tightening.
• Keep it private: If you still have devices, using them in public spaces, cafes, or even outside your office building is now a financial risk.
• Respect the venue: Don’t put your favorite bar owner in a tough spot. If they ask you to stop, they are protecting their license and their wallet.

Welcome to 2026. The air in Saigon just got a little clearer, and the laws just got a lot clearer.

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws in Vietnam can change and enforcement can vary. Always refer to the latest official government decrees.