What was being sold in the Toufen vending machine?

It was not e-cigarettes, but filter accessories for traditional cigarettes, with enhanced design but legally compliant.

Why was this vending machine questioned?

Due to its appearance, it was mistaken for selling e-cigarettes, prompting public reports and official inspection.

Is this product illegal?

No, since it's not a tobacco product or e-cigarette device, it's not prohibited under current laws.

How will Miaoli County respond in the future?

The county will continue strict monitoring and inter-agency cooperation against illegal e-cigarette sales.

What's the difference between filter accessories and e-cigarettes?

Filter accessories are decorative add-ons for traditional cigarettes, while e-cigarettes are battery-powered devices regulated by law.

Vending Machine in Toufen Suspected of Selling E-Cigarettes; Miaoli County Confirms It's Tobacco Filter Accessories

Published Jun 15, 2026 7:35 PM ・ Updated Jun 27, 2026 8:05 PM ・ 4 min read ・ Source: CNA (Central News Agency)

Following public reports that a vending machine in Toufen City was illegally selling e-cigarettes, a joint inspection team from Miaoli County conducted an on-site review and confirmed the products sold were tobacco filter accessories for traditional cigarettes, with no violations found.

(Central News Agency reporter Kuan Jui-ping, Miaoli County, June 15) The Miaoli County Government announced today that after receiving public reports alleging an illegal vending machine selling e-cigarettes in Toufen City, a joint inspection team conducted an on-site review and confirmed the products sold were 'cigarette filter accessories (commonly known as cigarette tips)', with no illegal activities discovered.

The Bureau of Industrial Development stated that residents had reported to local councilors about a suspected e-cigarette vending machine in Toufen City. The bureau subsequently coordinated with the Police Department and Public Health Bureau to form a joint inspection team. The investigation confirmed that the vending machine was selling filter accessories designed for use with traditional paper cigarettes, not actual tobacco products, nor e-cigarettes, heated tobacco devices, cartridges, or other products prohibited by law.

The Bureau explained that while these filter accessories retain basic filtration functions, they feature enhanced design, materials, or decorative appearances, resulting in higher prices than standard filters. However, their essential nature remains that of cigarette filter accessories, unrelated to e-cigarettes or heated tobacco products. No violations of the Tobacco Hazards Prevention Act or other relevant laws were found at the site.

Bureau Director Chan Tsai-ping emphasized that e-cigarettes and related illegal products pose significant risks to public health and youth protection. The county government will continue strengthening inter-departmental cooperation and inspection operations. Any discovery of illegal sales, displays, or supply of e-cigarettes and prohibited products will be strictly enforced according to law. (Edited by Chen Jen-hua) 1150615

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Source: CNA (Central News Agency)
Category: Taiwan

Vending Machine in Toufen Suspected of Selling E-Cigarettes; Miaoli County Confirms It's Tobacco Filter Accessories

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