New Delhi, Feb. 20 -- Health experts and parent groups have welcomed the ban imposed by Vietnam and the Maldives on vaping, calling the decision an important step in protecting young people from nicotine addiction. Among those praising the move is Mothers Against Vaping, an organisation advocating for stricter regulations to prevent youth from accessing e-cigarettes.

Vietnam introduced harsh penalties, including fines of up to 2 million dong (US$78.50) for individuals caught using e-cigarettes in 2024. Those involved in importing, trading, or producing vapes face even tougher consequences, with fines reaching 3 billion dong and prison sentences of up to 15 years.

In the Maldives, President Mohamed Muizzu announced a phased ban, starting...