Illegal sellers openly advertising the sale of vape on Facebook is an issue that is gaining more and more attention in Singapore. Vaping, or the act of inhaling and exhaling vapor produced by an electronic cigarette, is illegal in Singapore and is punishable by a fine of up to S$2,000 and/or imprisonment for up to six months for first-time offenders.
Illegal sellers pay for advertisement
The sellers opening advertised on Facebook meaning they have the audacity to pay to advertise.
Despite this law, there are still many sellers advertising the sale of vape products on Facebook, which is a violation of Singapore’s laws.
The problem of illegal sellers selling vape products on Facebook is an issue that Singapore authorities have been trying to address for some time.
According to a report, the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has been monitoring the situation on Facebook/Telegram and is taking “appropriate enforcement action” against those who are flouting the law.
While the HSA has issued warnings to those who are illegally advertising the sale of vape products on Facebook, it is still a major challenge to stop the illegal activity as it is difficult to track down the sellers.
Penalties
The purchase, possession and use of e-vaporisers are prohibited in Singapore under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act.
This includes purchases made through the Internet and from overseas. Offenders can be fined up to $2,000. From 1 February 2018 to 30 June 2020, 1,335 people have been caught for the use of vaporisers.
Under the Act, the import, distribution, possession for sale, sale or offer for sale of such products are also prohibited. Offenders can be fined up to $10,000 or jailed up to 6 months or both for the first offence, and fined up to $20,000 or jailed up to 12 months or both for subsequent offences.