Singapore. Singapore will classify vaping as a drug issue rather than a tobacco-related offense, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced Sunday, pledging tougher penalties and a nationwide crackdown on electronic cigarettes laced with harmful substances.

In his National Day Rally speech at the Institute of Technical Education College Central, Wong warned that illegal vaping products are increasingly being used as delivery devices for addictive chemicals such as etomidate, a powerful anesthetic typically used in hospitals to induce sedation. Abuse of the drug can cause dangerous side effects, including suppressed breathing, nausea, and hormone imbalances.

“Many of these vapes are laced with addictive and harmful substances like etomidate. Right now it’s etomidate. In the future, it could be something worse, stronger, or far more dangerous drugs,” Wong said.

Until now, vaping in Singapore has been treated as a tobacco offense, with violators facing fines. Under the new policy, those who sell or distribute harmful vapes will face jail terms and stiffer punishments. Addicted users will be placed under supervision and offered rehabilitation programs to help them quit.

Wong said the government will also step up nationwide enforcement and mount a major public education campaign, beginning in schools, institutes of higher learning, and during national service. The Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Health will spearhead the efforts, backed by a “whole-of-government” approach.

Authorities have already begun preliminary operations, and relevant ministries are expected to announce detailed measures in the coming weeks.

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