The Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Rahayu Mahzam, said in Parliament earlier today that 7,593 offenders were caught in 2021 for importing vaporisers into Singapore.
Additionally, 4,697 people were caught buying, using, or in possession of vaporisers in Singapore last year, with about one-third of those caught being under the age of 18.
In comparison, 6,192 people were caught importing vapes into Singapore in 2020, while another 1,266 people were caught for the use, purchase and possession of vapes in 2020.
Rahayu said:
“While data on number of offenders may not represent the total number of users, the trend does suggest a general increase in use of vaporisers in Singapore.
This worrying trend of increased vaping is also observed internationally.”
She added that MOH will be working together with their relevant partners and stakeholders to reinforce enforcement measures, as well as educate the public on vaping.
A vape-free campaign will also be introduced by the Health Promotion Board later this year through digital mediums, targeting youths and young adults.