"One Pack of Duty-Free Cigarettes Could Cost 1 Million KRW Fine"... Unaware Travelers to Hong Kong at Risk

Fine of 1 Million KRW for Entering Hong Kong with More Than 19 Duty-Free Cigarettes Starting Next Year
Stricter Enforcement and Expanded Smoking Ban in Public Spaces

The Hong Kong government plans to impose a fine of approximately 1 million KRW on travelers entering the country with more than 19 duty-free cigarettes starting next year.

Duty-free shop. Getty Images

According to reports from China Daily and Jiemian News on April 27, the Hong Kong government published the draft of the "2025 Smoking Ban (Amendment) Bill" on April 26, aiming to reduce the smoking rate and strengthen public health.

According to the draft, starting from January next year, anyone entering Hong Kong with more than 19 duty-free cigarettes will be fined 5,000 Hong Kong dollars (approximately 927,000 KRW). This is a stricter enforcement compared to the previous fine of 2,000 Hong Kong dollars (approximately 370,000 KRW).

Victoria Harbor, Hong Kong. Photo by Hong Kong Tourism Board

Additionally, smoking will be prohibited in designated waiting areas of public transportation facilities, as well as in movie theaters, hospitals, public playgrounds, and stadiums. "Waiting" refers to situations where two or more people are standing in line. Violators will be fined 3,000 Hong Kong dollars (approximately 556,000 KRW).

This draft bill is scheduled to be submitted to the Legislative Council on April 30, and will be finalized after the first and second readings.