Uzbekistan Embassy Warns Citizens About Strict Ban on Vapes and IQOS in Singapore

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Embassy of Uzbekistan in Singapore has issued a notice to citizens regarding the enforcement, since 1 September 2025, of stricter regulations on electronic cigarettes and tobacco-heating devices, including “K-pods” and substances containing etomidate.

Under Singaporean law, e-cigarettes and similar devices are completely prohibited for import, sale, possession, and use. Possession or use can result in fines of up to SGD 2,000.

Importing or selling such devices carries fines of up to SGD 10,000 and/or imprisonment for up to six months. Repeat offenses are penalized more severely, with fines up to SGD 20,000 and/or imprisonment for up to one year.

“K-pods” and etomidate are subject to a separate control regime. These devices are classified as drug-related, and etomidate is listed as a Class S controlled substance. Possession or use triggers mandatory monitoring and rehabilitation programs, with repeat offenses leading to criminal prosecution.

Smuggling can result in imprisonment from three to twenty years and corporal punishment of five to fifteen strokes. Selling or distributing such substances carries imprisonment from two to ten years and two to five strokes of the cane.

The Embassy emphasizes that these laws apply equally to Singaporean citizens and foreigners, including tourists, students, and work visa holders. Violations may lead to detention, heavy fines, imprisonment, deportation, and bans on re-entry.

Uzbek citizens are strongly advised to refrain from bringing or using electronic cigarettes and tobacco-heating devices in Singapore to avoid serious legal consequences and ensure safe stay in the country.