Malaysia Weighs Vape Ban as Healthcare Costs Outpace Taxes
The Malaysian Ministry of Health (MOH) has announced plans to tighten controls on electronic cigarettes after revealing that the annual medical and economic burden of vaping-related illnesses now exceeds the government’s tax revenue from these products. This deficit was disclosed in a written Senate reply published on July 29.
Between 2023 and June 11, 2026, Malaysia collected 354.51 million MYR in excise duties from e-cigarettes. However, the annual healthcare and economic cost linked to vaping diseases has climbed to an estimated 369 million MYR (approximately 90 million USD).
| Financial Category | Amount (MYR) | Timeframe Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Vaping Excise Duty Collected | 354.51 million MYR | 2023 – June 11, 2026 (Over 3 Years) |
| Vaping-Related Healthcare & Economic Cost | 369.00 million MYR | Annual (Per Year) |
To mitigate these rising costs, the MOH is increasing oversight of high-risk vaping products. Officials are currently reviewing a proposal to ban bottled e-cigarette liquids, citing concerns that these open-system liquids can be easily mixed with drugs and other prohibited substances.
The ministry stated that any future policy decisions, including a potential total ban on all vape products, will be guided strictly by scientific evidence and public health considerations.
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