In June 2024, there were reports that a large-scale smuggling group involved in the illegal importation of heated tobacco had used Japanese travelers to carry large quantities of heated tobacco from Japan to Taiwan. These travelers were subsequently apprehended.
Regarding the importation of heated tobacco by travelers entering Taiwan:
– Heated tobacco must not be brought into Taiwan.
– If you are carrying heated tobacco upon entry, you must declare it honestly to customs.
– If you fail to declare it to customs and it is discovered during customs inspection, you may be fined under the Smoke-Free Environment Law and the heated tobacco may be confiscated, destroyed, or returned.
As such, heated tobacco, which is widely used in Japan, cannot be brought into Taiwan. Please ensure you do not bring any heated tobacco (including in checked luggage) when entering Taiwan. If you accidentally bring it with you, declare it at the customs declaration counter (Red Line Counter) upon arrival in Taiwan and follow the instructions given by customs officers.
Failure to declare heated tobacco and having it discovered during customs inspection will result in penalties, regardless of whether you were aware of its illegality. Additionally, do not comply with any solicitation to carry heated tobacco into Taiwan.
For detailed information on import restrictions, please refer to the press release from Taiwan’s Ministry of Finance, dated March 22, 2023: [Press Release](https://www.mof.gov.tw/singlehtml/384fb3077bb349ea973e7fc6f13b6974?cntId=59011369eade499881cf5fc6f13b6974)
Please also note that the use, manufacture, import, and sale of electronic cigarettes are fully prohibited in Taiwan.
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