Singapore Enforces Tougher Penalties on Vaping, Etomidate from Sept 1

SINGAPORE – Starting Sept 1, Singapore will enforce tougher penalties to combat vaping, including mandatory rehabilitation for abusers and caning for suppliers of etomidate-laced products.

Under new interim measures, etomidate will be listed as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act until Feb 28, 2026. Those caught importing Kpods or etomidate face three to 20 years’ jail and five to 15 strokes of the cane. Sellers and distributors risk two to 10 years’ jail and two to five strokes of the cane.

Vaping

First-time abusers under 18 will be fined $500, while adults will face a $700 fine — both groups must undergo up to six months of rehabilitation. Repeat offenders risk arrest, drug testing and supervision.

Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam said the measures were introduced early to prevent the issue from spiralling out of control. Health Minister Ong Ye Kung warned that vapes are becoming a “gateway for serious substance abuse.”

The government will use the six-month period to study longer-term laws to curb vaping and protect youth.

Business News