Vietnam's public smoking ban remains toothless without real enforcement

As reader Vu Chau put it: "The law on tobacco harm prevention is in place, but no one has ever been fined, so who is afraid?"

He argues that while there is propaganda, legislation, and even official sanctions in theory, they are rarely applied in practice. He adds a practical proposal: gradually raise the legal smoking age year by year - today 18, next year 19, and so on - to build a generation that says no to tobacco. But again, this will only be effective if there are penalties to back it up."

A man smokes next to his parked car. Photo by Unsplash

Reader Nam Nguyen shared a frustrating experience: "The law prohibits smoking in public, but when I remind people in the park, they're ready to fight me to the death. Even when there's a clear no-smoking sign, some will say, 'Go ahead, take a photo and report me.'"

His comment reflects what many of us face: a public health law without the social or legal weight to support those who speak up.

While waiting for stronger enforcement, reader Chris suggests limiting smoking to only designated areas: "Smoking should only be allowed in places specifically for that purpose, such as private homes, restaurants, or cafes with designated smoking areas."

He adds: "Nowadays, wherever I go, I see people smoking - on the street, in shops, parks, and public places. Just a whiff of smoke gives me a headache and ruins my day. On the road, young people blow smoke behind them while riding motorbikes. I urge stricter penalties to create a clean environment for everyone."

Editor's notes: As of May 11, 2023, Vietnam's Ministry of Health lists 13 locations where smoking is prohibited. According to government decrees, those caught smoking in hospitals or similarly restricted places face fines of VND200,000–500,000 (US$7.66-19.16); violators who discard cigarette butts improperly in apartment buildings, commercial centers, or public spaces face fines of VND100,000–150,000; if improper cigarette disposal leads to a fire causing damages worth VND100 million or more, the fine increases to VND5–10 million.