Malaysian Vape Retailers Fear Heavy Losses if Selangor, Negeri Sembilan Ban Sales

Malaysia Vape Ban

Vape retailers in the Malaysian states of Selangor and Negeri Sembilan are expressing concern over potential state-level bans on the sale of e-cigarettes, fearing substantial financial losses if such measures are implemented without a sufficient transition period. This comes as both state governments are reportedly deliberating prohibitions, following similar moves by other Malaysian states.

Muhammad Fidzree Tamin, a vape outlet manager in Petaling Jaya since 2016, stated his shop generates RM100,000 to RM150,000 in monthly sales, with restocking costs around RM50,000. “If there’s no transition period, we lose everything we’ve stocked… Including rent and operating costs, a sudden shutdown could result in over RM60,000 in immediate losses per outlet,” he said, emphasizing compliance with existing regulations like ad restrictions and age verification. He stressed that if a ban is enforced, he would not operate illegally but needs “six months or a year, to clear our stocks.”

Shahfiq Ikmal, another Petaling Jaya vape shop owner, echoed these concerns, noting his inventory is typically worth RM30,000. He highlighted that many vape retailers registered under a generic “electronics” category due to the lack of a vape-specific business code, complicating compliance. Both retailers emphasized their refusal to sell to minors and believe stronger enforcement and collaborative research would be more effective than blanket bans. The Malaysian Vape Chamber of Commerce is reportedly working with agencies for proper registration pathways.

Matthew Ma
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