Vietnam Seeks Public Input on Expanded Tobacco Control Law
The Vietnamese Ministry of Health is seeking public opinion on a draft amendment to expand the scope of tobacco control regulations, including the addition of new tobacco products such as vapes and heated tobacco products, and proposing a ban on their possession, transportation, and use. The draft also proposes prohibiting the production and sale of components and equipment used for assembly. The Ministry of Health expects the draft to take effect on January 1, 2027.
Key Points at a Glance
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Public Consultation: The Vietnamese Ministry of Health is gathering opinions on a draft amendment to the tobacco control law and holding policy consultation and social review meetings in southern Vietnam.
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Proposed Bans: The draft proposes banning the possession, transportation, and use of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products, as well as prohibiting the production and sale of related components and equipment.
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Advertising and Retail Controls: The draft seeks to strengthen restrictions on advertising, promotion, sponsorship, online marketing, and retail outlets.
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Packaging and Health Warnings: Health warnings on packaging would be increased to at least 85%.
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Health and Economic Impact: Officials cited more than 100,000 tobacco-related deaths annually and medical costs of approximately 108.7 trillion Vietnamese dong (US$4.1 billion) in 2022.
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Proposed Effective Date: January 1, 2027.
Background: National Assembly Resolution on New Tobacco Products
January 13, 2026 – According to VTV.vn, the Vietnamese Ministry of Health is soliciting feedback on a draft amendment to the Law on Prevention and Control of Tobacco Harm, aimed at banning e-cigarettes and addressing emerging public health risks.
On November 30, 2024, the Vietnamese National Assembly adopted Resolution No. 173/2024/QH15, unanimously agreeing to prohibit the production, business, import, storage, transportation, and use of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products starting in 2025.
Need to Amend the Tobacco Control Law
Although the National Assembly’s resolution has been in force since 2025, authorities note that amendments to the Law on Prevention and Control of Tobacco Harm are necessary to ensure long-term sustainability and effective enforcement of these measures.
Consultation Process and Public Health Rationale
The Ministry of Health held social review, consultation, and opinion-gathering meetings in southern Vietnam, involving representatives from government ministries, industry, medical and legal experts, and social organisations. Discussions focused on how to revise the law to respond to new public health challenges.
Officials noted that in 2022, medical costs linked to tobacco-related diseases totalled approximately 108.7 trillion Vietnamese dong (US$4.1 billion), while tobacco tax revenues covered only about one-fifth of that amount, creating a significant burden on the healthcare system, economy, and social security.
Expanding the Scope of Tobacco Regulation
The draft legislation proposes expanding regulatory coverage to include vapes, heated tobacco products, and other new tobacco products, addressing existing legal gaps. It also calls for banning the possession, transportation, and use of these products, along with prohibiting the production and sale of components and equipment used for their assembly.
Advertising, Marketing, and Retail Restrictions
Under the draft, bans on advertising, promotion, and sponsorship would be extended to e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. Indirect marketing methods, including online platforms and social media, would be subject to stricter controls. The draft also proposes tightening rules governing retail outlets, particularly regarding their proximity to schools, healthcare facilities, and areas frequented by children.
Safeguards Against Commercial Influence
A new principle would be introduced to protect tobacco control policymaking and implementation from commercial interests, to improve transparency and prevent conflicts of interest.
Packaging Warnings and Smoking Cessation Support
The draft proposes increasing the health warning area on tobacco packaging to at least 85% and expanding cessation support services to cover users of electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco products.
Implementation Timeline
The amended law is expected to take effect on January 1, 2027, allowing time for government agencies, local authorities, businesses, and the public to prepare for the transition.
