Vietnam Proposes Ban on Investment and Trade in Vapes and Heated Tobacco
Vietnam’s Ministry of Health has submitted a proposal to the Government Office recommending that “vapes and heated tobacco products” be added to the list of prohibited investment and business sectors in the amended Investment Law. The proposal aligns with National Assembly Resolution No. 173/2024/QH15, which bans the production, trade, import, and use of these products starting in 2025.
Key Points
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Ministry of Health submitted a document on the amended Investment Law.
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Proposes to include vapes and heated tobacco in the list of banned sectors.
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Based on Resolution No. 173/2024/QH15 adopted by the National Assembly.
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MP Lê Hoàng Anh called for banning all “new generation tobacco products.”
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The government was instructed to ensure legal and practical consistency in implementation.
Ministry of Health Recommends Legal Ban
On Nov. 12, 2025, the Ministry of Health of Vietnam announced that it had submitted an official document to the Government Office proposing that the amended Investment Law include a clause prohibiting investment and business activities involving vapes and heated tobacco products.
Amendment to Article 6 of the Investment Law
The proposed amendment targets Article 6 of the Investment Law, which defines prohibited investment sectors. The move aims to align with National Assembly Resolution No. 173/2024/QH15, adopted on Nov. 30, 2024, which states:
- “The National Assembly agrees to prohibit, from 2025 onward, the production, business, import, storage, transport, and use of vapes, heated tobacco, and any addictive or health-harming substances.”
Government Directive for Legal Consistency
Following the resolution, Prime Minister’s Decision No. 1665/QĐ-TTg dated Aug. 5, 2025, instructed the Ministry of Finance to review and amend relevant provisions of the Investment Law. The decision also called for solutions ensuring legal consistency and compliance among enterprises affected by the new restrictions.
Lawmakers Call for Broader Prohibition
During a National Assembly group session on Nov. 11, MP Lê Hoàng Anh from Gia Lai province proposed explicitly adding “vapes, heated tobacco, and other new-generation tobacco products” to the list of prohibited investment and business activities.
Next Steps for Legislative Approval
The revised Investment Law is still under discussion and is expected to be submitted for formal approval during the next legislative session.
