Michael Kannes
07/03/2025 • 5 min read
If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka and wondering if you can vape there, the answer might surprise you. In this guide, we’ll break down Sri Lanka's vape laws, compare them to those of other countries, and explain what you need to know about bringing vapes into the country. Plus, we’ll cover where (if anywhere) you can buy vapes in Sri Lanka, as well as what you can expect in terms of prices.
Vaping in Sri Lanka has been a contentious issue. Various websites will give you differing information regarding vaping in Sri Lanka, and these answers are often based on taking risks and hoping you won’t encounter a thorough customs officer, official, or hotel staff.
However, there is only one answer based on official rules. According to the National Authority on Alcohol and Tobacco in Sri Lanka, e-cigarettes are regulated under the NATA Act No. 27 of 2006, which clearly states that possessing, selling, and vaping are banned in Sri Lanka. Despite this prohibition, e-cigarettes might still be accessible in some parts of the country, indicating a thriving black market. As we repeat several times in the following lines, we strongly advise against breaking official laws.
If you’re used to vaping in the UK and across Europe, Sri Lanka’s laws will feel like a complete culture shock. While the EU regulates vaping but essentially allows it, Sri Lanka has banned it outright. This means no vaping in public, private, or anywhere in between. The ban isn’t just about nicotine; even nicotine-free vapes are illegal. In contrast, the EU has more lenient regulations on e-cigarette use, allowing it in many public spaces with certain restrictions.
How does this compare to other countries? Think of places like Thailand or Singapore, where vaping is strictly forbidden, and penalties can be harsh. Although Sri Lanka isn’t as notorious as Thailand (where you could face jail time for vaping), the rules are clear-cut, and enforcement is strict. (You can always find up-to-date details about countries where vaping is illegal here on our blog.)
You might assume that Sri Lanka’s ban stems from religious reasons, given its proximity to Muslim-majority countries with similar laws. But that’s not the case here. Sri Lanka is predominantly Buddhist, and the vaping ban is more about preventing youth addiction than religious motivations. The outcome is the same: No vaping.
Simply put: Absolutely. Vaping is 100% banned in Sri Lanka. Since 2016, the government has prohibited the import, sale, and possession of all e-cigarettes and vaping devices. This applies to both locals and tourists. The ban covers everything from disposable vapes to vape pens and even e-liquids — whether they contain nicotine or not. The 'Prohibited Tobacco Products Regulations' underpin this vaping ban. They expressly prohibit the sale, manufacture, or importation of e-cigarettes that contain tobacco, which is part of the country's broader tobacco control efforts.
You could face fines, confiscation, or even arrest if caught with a vape. Sri Lankan authorities don’t make exceptions for tourists; claiming ignorance won’t get you off the hook. The penalties aren’t always publicly detailed, but it’s clear the government treats vaping violations seriously.
The answer is again very easy: No. Bringing a vape into Sri Lanka is illegal, even if it’s for personal use. This includes vape pens, e-liquids, coils, and chargers. Customs officers at the airport are strict, and if they find any vaping products in your luggage, they’ll likely confiscate them on the spot. You could also face fines or more severe legal consequences, depending on how much you carry and how the officers interpret the law.
Unlike some countries where personal use might fly under the radar, Sri Lanka has no grey areas. Even if you’re discreet and only plan to vape in private, simply possessing the device is against the law. Worried about airport security? You should be. Sri Lankan airports have tight screening processes, and customs officers are trained to spot vaping devices.
And, once you’re in the country, police on the streets are known to enforce the law. If you’re caught vaping in public — or even just carrying a vape — you could face serious trouble. Strictly enforcing vaping laws in public places further underscores the country's commitment to stringent tobacco control regulations.
Interestingly, smoking isn’t banned in the same way vaping is. Although smoking is heavily regulated, with no-smoking zones in public spaces like restaurants, buses, and government buildings, you can still buy cigarettes legally across the country. Additionally, there are strict requirements for clear pictorial and text health warnings on tobacco products to inform consumers about the health risks associated with smoking.
So, why the harsher stance on vaping? The Sri Lankan government sees vaping as a gateway for young people to start nicotine use, even though many people use it to quit smoking. This contrasts sharply with places like the UK, where vaping is actively promoted as a smoking cessation tool, which is also 95% less harmful.
Heated tobacco products (HTPs) are gaining attention as an alternative to traditional cigarettes. Unlike conventional cigarettes, HTPs heat tobacco instead of burning it, which is marketed as a safer option. However, the evidence supporting these claims is limited. In Sri Lanka, HTPs are not banned but are subject to the same regulations as traditional tobacco products. The tobacco industry has been actively promoting HTPs as a harm-reduction tool.
Shop heated tobacco kitsDespite these efforts, many experts remain sceptical. It’s nothing surprising, though. Similar debates are happening worldwide, even about various food ingredients. Artificial sweeteners — yes or no? Are there any that are completely harmless? Reducing excessive sugar in drinks makes sense, but the question of what exactly to replace it with will likely be debated forever. It’s the same with smoking and replacing it with significantly less harmful vaping.
If you’ve successfully switched from smoking to vaping, facing a strict vape ban in Sri Lanka might feel like a setback — especially when cigarettes are easy to find. But there are ways to stay on track and avoid falling back into old habits. First, consider packing nicotine replacement therapies like strips, gum, or lozenges. These are legal in Sri Lanka and can help you manage cravings without turning to cigarettes. You can also find these products in most local pharmacies so you won’t be left without support.
It's important to note that smoking prevalence in Sri Lanka has been on a downward trend due to effective tobacco control measures. However, the vaping ban might impact these rates by potentially driving former vapers back to smoking.
Another strategy is to focus on the reason you switched to vaping in the first place. Whether it is for your health, to save money, or to feel better, keeping that goal in mind can help you stay strong. If cravings hit, distract yourself with activities like exploring Sri Lanka’s beautiful landscapes, walking on the beach, or diving into local cuisine.
Most importantly, remind yourself that the ban on vaping isn’t a reason to go back to smoking. With the right mindset and tools, you can enjoy your trip while staying committed to your smoke-free journey.
If you hope to buy a vape once you land, you’re out of luck. Vapes aren’t sold legally anywhere in Sri Lanka. There are no vape shops, no kiosks, and no online retailers that operate within the law. Sri Lanka has implemented stringent tobacco control measures, which have significantly impacted the availability of vapes and contributed to the rise of a black market for these products.
That said, like in many countries with strict bans, a black market exists. But buying vapes from unofficial sources comes with serious risks — not just legally, but health-wise too. Black-market products often don’t meet safety standards, and the quality of e-liquids can be questionable at best. If caught purchasing or using these products, you could face the same legal consequences as bringing them into the country yourself.
Why are we talking about the black market anyway? Because vapes are illegal in Sri Lanka, there are no official prices for disposable or any other vapes. But expect to pay a premium if you come across them on the black market. High prices reflect the risk sellers are taking, and you’ll have no way to guarantee the product’s quality. The prevalence of tobacco smoking contributes to the demand for alternative products like vapes, fueling the black market.
For example, in countries like Thailand or India, where vaping laws are similarly strict, black-market disposable vapes can cost double or triple what they would elsewhere. Expect similar pricing if you stumble across vapes in Sri Lanka — but remember, the actual cost could be legal trouble or even health risks from unregulated products. Just hold off on vaping while you are in Sri Lanka.
The tobacco industry is a significant player in Sri Lanka’s economy, with major companies like British American Tobacco (BAT) and Ceylon Tobacco Company (CTC) leading the market. These companies have a long-standing presence in the country and are deeply involved in producing and selling tobacco products. However, the industry has faced criticism for its aggressive marketing tactics, mainly targeting youth.
It’s most likely this very reason that led to such an extensive ban also on vaping in Sri Lanka, even though it is officially recognised in most countries around the world as a much less risky method of nicotine use, offering a far easier way to reduce nicotine intake and eventually quit altogether.
So, can you vape in Sri Lanka? The answer is a firm no. Vaping is illegal, and bringing your device into the country could lead to serious legal trouble. While smoking is still legal (though regulated), vaping isn’t tolerated at all, whether you’re using nicotine or not.
If you’re committed to staying off cigarettes, explore nicotine replacement options like patches or gum. And if you’re considering quitting nicotine altogether, your trip to Sri Lanka could be the perfect opportunity. Knowing the rules will help you enjoy your time without any unwelcome surprises.
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