Introduction
Singapore has some of the strictest tobacco control laws in the world. Cigarettes are heavily taxed and smoking is banned in most public places. As a result, buying cigarettes in Singapore can be a bit of a challenge. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about how to buy cigarettes in Singapore, including where to buy them, how much they cost, and what the laws are.
Where to Buy Cigarettes in Singapore
Cigarettes can be purchased at a variety of places in Singapore, including:
- Convenience stores
- Supermarkets
- Tobacco shops
- Duty-free shops
Convenience stores are the most common place to buy cigarettes in Singapore. They are located in most neighborhoods and typically sell a variety of brands of cigarettes. Supermarkets also sell cigarettes, but they typically have a smaller selection than convenience stores. Tobacco shops specialize in selling tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, and pipe tobacco. They typically have a wider selection of cigarettes than convenience stores or supermarkets. Duty-free shops sell cigarettes at a discounted price, but they are only available to travelers who are leaving Singapore.
How Much Do Cigarettes Cost in Singapore?
The price of cigarettes in Singapore varies depending on the brand and type of cigarette. A pack of 20 cigarettes typically costs between $10 and $15. However, some brands can cost more than $20 per pack.
The Laws on Smoking in Singapore
Smoking is banned in most public places in Singapore, including:
- Enclosed public spaces, such as shopping malls, restaurants, and bars
- Public transport, such as buses, trains, and taxis
- Outdoor areas within 5 meters of a bus stop or taxi stand
- Educational institutions
- Hospitals
There are a few exceptions to the smoking ban, such as designated smoking areas in some public spaces. However, it is important to note that smoking is not allowed in most public places in Singapore.
Penalties for Smoking in Singapore
The penalties for smoking in a prohibited area in Singapore are:
- A fine of up to $1,000 for first-time offenders
- A fine of up to $2,000 for second-time offenders
- A fine of up to $5,000 and/or imprisonment for up to three months for subsequent offenses
Tips for Buying Cigarettes in Singapore
Here are a few tips for buying cigarettes in Singapore:
- Be aware of the laws on smoking in Singapore. Smoking is banned in most public places, so it is important to be aware of where you can and cannot smoke.
- Carry your passport with you. You may be asked to show your passport when purchasing cigarettes in Singapore.
- Be prepared to pay a high price for cigarettes. Cigarettes are heavily taxed in Singapore, so they can be expensive.
- Consider buying cigarettes in duty-free shops. Cigarettes are sold at a discounted price in duty-free shops, but they are only available to travelers who are leaving Singapore.
Conclusion
Buying cigarettes in Singapore can be a bit of a challenge, but it is possible if you follow the tips in this guide. By following these tips, you can avoid the inconvenience of being fined for smoking in a prohibited area and you can make sure that you are buying cigarettes at the best possible price.
Tables
Here are four useful tables that provide additional information on buying cigarettes in Singapore:
| Table 1: Average Price of Cigarettes in Singapore |
|—|—|—|
| Brand | Price per Pack |
|—|—|—|
| Marlboro | $12 |
| Newport | $13 |
| Camel | $14 |
| Winston | $15 |
| Table 2: Places to Buy Cigarettes in Singapore |
|—|—|—|
| Location | Type |
|—|—|—|
| Convenience stores | Most common |
| Supermarkets | Smaller selection |
| Tobacco shops | Wider selection |
| Duty-free shops | Discounted price |
| Table 3: Laws on Smoking in Singapore |
|—|—|—|
| Location | Smoking Allowed |
|—|—|—|
| Enclosed public spaces | No |
| Public transport | No |
| Outdoor areas within 5 meters of a bus stop or taxi stand | No |
| Educational institutions | No |
| Hospitals | No |
| Table 4: Penalties for Smoking in Singapore |
|—|—|—|
| Offense | Fine |
|—|—|—|
| First-time offenders | $1,000 |
| Second-time offenders | $2,000 |
| Subsequent offenses | $5,000 and/or imprisonment for up to three months |
