Vietnam Issues Directive No. 25/CT-TTg to Strengthen the Fight Against Illicit Tobacco
The Government of Vietnam has announced a new directive aimed at intensifying the fight against smuggling, production, sale, storage, and illegal use of tobacco products, including e‑cigarettes and heated tobacco. On June 9, 2026, Standing Deputy Prime Minister Phạm Gia Túc signed Directive No. 25/CT-TTg, replacing Directive No. 30/CT-TTg (2014) and marking a decisive step in addressing evolving challenges in tobacco control.
Background
Over the past decade, Vietnam has made significant progress in combating illicit tobacco. From 2014 to 2025, authorities detected and handled 79,459 violations, seizing over 110 million cigarette packs, 388 tons of tobacco leaves, and 2 million e‑cigarette and heated tobacco units.
Despite these achievements, illicit trade remains hihgly complex. Online sales and youth-targeted marketing of e‑cigarettes and heated tobacco have surged, posing serious risks to public health, undermining state revenue, and destabilizing social order.
Key Measures in Directive No. 25
The new directive introduces stronger enforcement mechanisms and clearer accountability across all levels of government:
- Expanded penalties: Regulations now cover not only smuggling and sales but also the illegal use and storage of e‑cigarettes and heated tobacco.
- Civil servant ban: Government officials are prohibited from buying, storing, or using illicit tobacco products.
- Local accountability: Commune-level leaders are held directly responsible for enforcement in their jurisdictions.
- Retail crackdown: Local governments must strictly monitor retail outlets and online platforms to cut off demand.
Multi-Agency Coordination
Directive No. 25 calls for coordinated action across ministries and enforcement agencies:
- Police: Intensify patrols, online monitoring, and criminal investigations; prosecute offenders swiftly.
- Border Guards & Coast Guard: Step up patrols at borders and maritime routes to dismantle smuggling networks.
- Customs: Strengthen inspections and propose investment in modern equipment; incentivize whistleblowers.
- Market Regulators: Crack down on illegal retail and online sales.
- Health & Justice Ministries: Update laws on tobacco harm prevention and introduce new administrative penalties.
- Media & Advocacy: National broadcasters and press agencies will expand coverage to raise awareness and highlight positive community efforts.
Community Engagement
The directive emphasizes building a nationwide movement against illicit tobacco. Citizens, organizations, and associations are urged to actively engage actively in prevention and reporting. Special focus will be given to border communities to prevent exploitation by smugglers.
Conclusion
To date, Directive No. 25/CT-TTg represents Vietnam’s most comprehensive effort to date in combating illicit tobacco. By expanding penalties, tightening retail and online enforcement, and mobilizing communities, the government aims to protect public health, safeguard state revenue, and dismantle smuggling networks at the source./.
