Importing an alternative smoking product (ASP) is prohibited under the Import and Export Ordinance, Cap. 60.

The import ban does not apply in relation to an ASP that is:

1. carried by a person arriving at the Hong Kong International Airport in transit without passing through immigration control;
2. an article in transit;
3. an air transhipment cargo; or
4. a specified intermodal transhipment cargo imported by a registered operator under the Alternative Smoking Product Transhipment Control Scheme (ATCS).

What is ASP

ASP is defined under Part 2 of Schedule 7 of the Smoking (Public Health) Ordinance, Cap. 371. In general, ASPs include electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco products, herbal cigarettes, and anything that is designed for use as a component of, and accessory to, an ASP, as well as any substance or tobacco that is packaged as being suitable for use with an ASP device.

Alternative Smoking Product Transhipment Control Scheme (ATCS)

Any person who wishes to seek exemption for ASPs that is a specified intermodal transhipment cargo shall make a prior application to the Commissioner of Customs and Excise for registration as a registered operator under the Alternative Smoking Product Transhipment Control Scheme (ATCS).