Two Hong Kong residents penalised for vaping in Admiralty as new tobacco law takes effect
Health authorities warn of zero-tolerance enforcement in business districts, with maximum penalties of HK$50,000 and six months jail for carrying more than five vape pods from April 30
At least two Hong Kong residents have been penalised for vaping in Admiralty as health authorities begin enforcing a new law banning the public use of alternative tobacco products, including e-cigarettes. “We will issue penalty tickets without warning, and step up publicity in high-traffic areas such as business districts,” Head of Tobacco and Alcohol Control Office Dr Manny Lam Man-chung said, stressing that the new measure would not undermine tourism. A patrol in a business district in Admiralty on Thursday morning saw two residents penalised, according to Lam. He reminded the public that staircases and building lobbies were also considered public places. More enforcement actions are expected this afternoon and on Friday. Authorities have also worked with tour agencies, airlines and mainland Chinese social media platforms to step up promotion of Hong Kong’s new smoking control measures. From April 30, anyone found carrying more than five vape pods or 100 heat sticks in public faces a maximum fine of HK$50,000 (US$6,400) and up to six months in jail, while those with smaller quantities will receive a fixed penalty of HK$3,000.
