The origins of vaping can be traced back to the early 2000s, with the development of the modern electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) credited to a Chinese pharmacist named Hon Lik. Lik, himself a heavy smoker, reportedly invented the e-cigarette as a means to quit smoking after his father, also a heavy smoker, died of lung cancer. Lik’s invention was inspired by a combination of his knowledge of pharmacology and his desire to create a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes.

The first commercially successful e-cigarette was introduced to the Chinese market in 2003 by Lik’s company, Ruyan Group (later renamed Dragonite International Limited). These early e-cigarettes consisted of a battery-powered heating element that vaporized a nicotine-containing liquid solution, creating an aerosol that could be inhaled by the user. The liquid solution typically contained nicotine, propylene glycol (PG) or vegetable glycerin (VG) as a base, flavorings, and sometimes other additives.

The concept of vaping quickly spread beyond China, and e-cigarettes began to gain popularity in other parts of the world, particularly in Europe and North America. In the following years, the design and technology of e-cigarettes continued to evolve, with manufacturers introducing a wide variety of devices, flavors, and nicotine strengths to cater to different preferences.

Since the early 2000s, vaping has undergone significant growth and innovation, with the market expanding to include not only traditional e-cigarettes but also a diverse range of vaping devices such as vape pens, pod systems, and advanced mods.

The industry has also faced regulatory challenges and controversies, particularly regarding the safety and health effects of vaping, the marketing and appeal of vaping products to youth, and the regulation of vaping products by governments and health authorities.