Vape in Mumbai: Understanding the Landscape in 2026

The vaping scene in Mumbai presents a complex picture in 2026. While India maintains a strict ban on electronic cigarettes, a thriving underground market continues to operate across the city. This blog post explores the current legal landscape, the reality of the market, and what Mumbaikars should know about vapes today.

The Legal Reality: India’s Ban on E-Cigarettes

India banned e-cigarettes and all Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes (Production, Manufacture, Import, Export, Transport, Sale, Distribution, Storage and Advertisement) Act, 2019 (PECA). The Act prohibits the production, sale, storage, and advertisement of e-cigarettes across India, with penalties including imprisonment of up to one year and fines of up to ₹1 lakh for the first offence.

The government has repeatedly reaffirmed this ban. In December 2025, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare informed Parliament that e-cigarettes remain completely banned under Indian law. The ban covers all electronic nicotine delivery systems, including vapes, e-cigarettes, and heated tobacco products.

Recent Enforcement Actions in Mumbai and Beyond

The enforcement of this ban has been particularly visible in recent months. In May 2026, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) conducted a major crackdown on e-cigarette smuggling across Maharashtra, Gujarat, Delhi, and West Bengal. The operation led to the seizure of nearly 3,00,000 electronic cigarettes and vapes valued at more than ₹120 crore. These prohibited products were found to be sourced from China and smuggled in concealment—hidden inside items like furniture and metal chair parts.

Mumbai has been at the centre of regulatory scrutiny. In July 2026, an investigation revealed that duty-free shops at Mumbai's international airport, operated by the Adani Group, were selling nicotine pouches without the necessary approvals. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) inspected the shops in March 2026 and found that imported nicotine pouches were being sold in the departure zone without required licences. The government considers nicotine pouches "a new and largely unregulated public health concern," with widespread illegal sales among people aged 18 to 40.

The Grey Market: Vapes in Mumbai Today

Despite the ban, vapes remain available across Mumbai. A simple online search reveals numerous platforms selling vaping products. As one Financial Express investigation noted, "Apart from roadside shops, a simple Google search throws up a number of online platforms selling vapes".

The demand persists, particularly among young adults. Users often turn to vaping as a way to quit traditional smoking, with one Bengaluru-based professional quoted as saying, "I picked up vaping when I was trying to quit smoking". However, the government and health authorities continue to warn that e-cigarettes are highly addictive and pose severe risks to respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological systems.

Sellers have adapted to the ban by operating discreetly. Some roadside shops in major cities make vapes available only on demand, with one shopkeeper admitting, "Police patrolling on this street is quite regular, so we do not risk selling vapes too openly".

What’s Available in the Market

Despite the legal restrictions, a wide range of vaping products continues to circulate in Mumbai and across India. Popular brands include Elf Bar, iGet, and others. Products range from disposable vapes and refillable devices to juice cartridges and vape kits.

Some of the most sought-after devices in the Indian market include:

• High-puff disposables: Devices offering anywhere from 20,000 to 50,000 puffs, with rechargeable batteries and smart displays

• Combo vapes: Devices that allow switching between multiple flavours in a single unit

• Premium brands: International names like Smok, Aspire, Vaporesso, and Uwell

Prices in India range from approximately ₹1,000 for lower-puff models to over ₹8,000 for high-capacity devices.

A Note of Caution

It is important to emphasise that the sale, purchase, and use of vapes remain illegal in India. The government has made its position clear: e-cigarettes are banned in the interest of public health. The recent seizures and enforcement actions demonstrate that authorities are actively cracking down on the illegal trade.

Health experts warn that vaping carries significant health risks. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has stated that e-cigarettes are highly addictive and pose severe risks similar to conventional smoking.

Final Thoughts

The vape market in Mumbai exists in a legal grey area—technically banned but still accessible through underground channels. While the demand persists, consumers should be aware of the legal consequences and health risks involved. The government continues to enforce the ban, as seen in recent high-profile seizures and investigations.

For those seeking more information about vaping products and the current market landscape, resources like The Vape Store Pro provide insights into what's available in the Indian market, though it's crucial to remember the legal status of these products.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. The sale and use of electronic cigarettes are illegal in India under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019. Readers are advised to comply with all applicable laws.