DH conducts operation to crack down on illegal online sale of alternative smoking products
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Through routine online and offline inspections, TACO officers discovered illegal online sales of ASPs and conducted test purchase operations. Two men, aged 29 and 39, were arrested during the operation in Tseung Kwan O and Lai Chi Kok respectively on suspicion of illegally selling and possessing ASPs for commercial purposes. A total of 1 982 ASPs were seized from them. TACO is following up on the cases and charges will be laid against the suspects when sufficient evidence is found.
According to the Import and Export Ordinance (Cap. 60), a person who imports ASPs, including e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products and herbal cigarettes, commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for two years, or liable on conviction on indictment to a fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years. The Smoking (Public Health) Ordinance (Cap. 371) prohibits the promotion, manufacture, sale and possession for commercial purposes of ASPs. Offenders are subject to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for six months. From April 30, 2026, any person who possesses specified ASPs, including e-cigarette capsules, liquids, heat sticks and herbal cigarettes in public places is liable to a fixed penalty of $3,000. If the quantity possessed exceeds the specified limit or involves commercial purposes, the maximum penalty is a fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for six months.
The DH reminds the public that promoting and selling ASPs through any channel, including the Internet, also carries criminal liability. Do not risk breaking the law. The public is also reminded that purchasing ASPs online may involve their importation and may constitute a breach of the law.
The DH also reminds members of the public that ASPs are addictive and are not effective smoking cessation tools. E-cigarettes may increase the risk of cancer, respiratory diseases, and cardiovascular diseases. Smokers are urged to quit smoking as early as possible for their own health and that of others. For assistance, please call the DH's Integrated Smoking Cessation Hotline on 1833 183, or visit www.livetobaccofree.hk for information on quitting.
Ends/Friday, May 8, 2026
Issued at HKT 18:35
Issued at HKT 18:35
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