Popularity of e-cigarettes is on the rise！ Travelers should be aware of e-cigarette import regulations

Text by / MOOK Scenic Spots compiled and reported
 
In recent years, a “vape” trend has emerged both domestically and internationally. Many people see e-cigarettes as an alternative to traditional cigarettes, hoping to quit smoking successfully. Moreover, the vapor produced by e-cigarettes comes in a wide variety of flavors, making it more acceptable compared to traditional cigarettes. However, due to ongoing safety concerns regarding e-cigarettes and their e-liquids, they are currently prohibited from being imported. Travelers should pay attention when entering or leaving the country.

According to regulations, an e-cigarette consists of e-liquid, an atomizer, and its components. It is powered electrically to heat the e-liquid—which contains nicotine, propylene glycol, or other flavorings—to produce a vapor similar to smoke for inhalation, mimicking the effect of smoking.

Regulations on bringing e-cigarettes into the country:
 
Regarding the atomizer and its components: According to an interpretation by the Health Promotion Administration (HPA) under the Ministry of Health and Welfare, e-cigarettes can create confusion for minors who may perceive them as imitation tobacco products. Therefore, based on Article 14 of the Tobacco Hazards Prevention Act, their import is prohibited.

E-cigarette liquid products:
 
1. If e-liquid contains nicotine, it falls under the definition of a pharmaceutical product according to Article 6 of the Pharmaceutical Affairs Act and must be handled in accordance with that law. Currently, there are still safety concerns about the vaporized e-liquid used in e-cigarettes, and various countries have issued safety warnings regarding such products. To ensure public health and safety, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the Ministry of Health and Welfare has not yet approved the import of nicotine-containing e-liquids, and customs will not allow them to pass unchecked.

2. If e-liquid products are “nicotine-free,” according to an HPA interpretation, because e-liquids must be used together with e-cigarette devices and are an essential component of e-cigarettes, they still fall under the scope of the same Article 14. No individual is permitted to import such items.

Therefore, according to current laws, travelers are not allowed to bring e-cigarettes or e-cigarette products into the country, and customs will not allow even small quantities for personal use to pass unchecked.

 

Attention when entering or leaving the country！ Bringing in goods worth over NT$100,000 without declaration will result in confiscation

》https://www.mook.com.tw/article.php?op=articleinfo&articleid=15849