KUALA LUMPUR, Vape liquid prices could rise by up to 1,000% if the Health Ministry’s proposed tax hike is approved, aimed at curbing widespread use of the products, the ministry said.
Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni.
Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni said the proposal has been submitted to the Finance Ministry for inclusion in Budget 2026. “The Health Ministry has suggested increasing the excise duty on vape liquids from the current 40 sen per ml to RM4 per ml,” he told the Dewan Rakyat yesterday.
He added that while a cigarette stick delivers around 10 puffs, 1ml of vape liquid provides roughly 100 puffs, highlighting the need for stronger regulation.
Currently, all vape liquids are subject to the 40 sen per ml excise duty, regardless of nicotine content, in effect since May 1, 2023. Nicotine continues to be regulated under the Poisons Act 1952.
Lukanisman explained that electronic cigarette liquids are now governed under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852), effective Oct 1, 2025. The law covers registration, advertising, sale, packaging, labelling, price control, and production of all smoking products, including vape liquids.
“Under Act 852, all smoking products, including e-cigarettes, must be registered with the Health Ministry before they can be imported, produced, or distributed. Failure to comply is an offence, punishable by fines, imprisonment, or both,” he said.
While the ministry works toward a nationwide ban on vape products, Lukanisman noted that the measure must be implemented before vape-related health cases rise further. Current data show 46 cases linked to e-cigarette and vaping product use-associated lung injury (EVALI).
