Entries by Matthew Ma

North Dakota Removes Vape Registry from AG Budget Bill

Concerns Over Business Impact Sideline Proposed E-cigarette Restrictions The North Dakota House of Representatives approved the Attorney General’s Office budget on April 29, but notably without a contentious provision that would have created a state registry for electronic smoking devices. Critics, including smoke shop and gas station owners, had argued the registry posed a significant […]

Can You Vape in Sri Lanka? The Local Vaping Laws Explained

Sri Lanka, an island paradise known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and welcoming culture, is a dream destination for many travelers. However, if you use e-cigarettes or vapes, there’s a critical piece of information you need before you pack your bags: vaping is officially banned in Sri Lanka. Understanding this ban and what it […]

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Ukraine Confirms Excise Stamp Requirement for Disposable Vapes

Tax Authority Clarifies Rules Based on Liquid Content The Main Directorate of the State Tax Service in Ukraine’s Zakarpattia region has clarified that disposable electronic cigarettes are subject to mandatory excise tax stamping. This requirement stems from the classification of the liquids used within these devices as excisable goods.

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Kazakhstan Approves New Tax Code: VAT Set at 16%, Excise Hikes for Tobacco & HTPs

Majilis Passes Reforms Aimed at Simplification and Differentiated Rates Deputies in Kazakhstan’s Majilis (lower house of parliament) have approved a new Tax Code in its second reading, introducing significant changes aimed at simplifying the system and adjusting tax rates across various sectors. The reforms include setting the standard Value Added Tax (VAT) rate and outlining […]

CAPHRA Urges Malaysia: Reject Vape Bans, Use Regulation

Advocates Criticize WHO, Cite Risks of Illicit Markets The Coalition of Asia Pacific Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates (CAPHRA) is urging Malaysian authorities to reject calls for vape bans and instead implement risk-proportionate regulations under the new Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852). CAPHRA argues that outright bans are counterproductive and […]

UK Government Pledges Consultation on Vape Flavours After Petition Hits Milestone

Response Acknowledges Flavours’ Role for Adult Smokers Amid Youth Protection Goals A petition urging the UK government to reconsider proposed restrictions on vape flavours under the new Tobacco and Vapes Bill has surpassed the 10,000-signature threshold, triggering a formal government response. While reaffirming its intention to regulate flavours to protect children, the Department of Health […]

Indonesia Targets June 2025 for Setting Nicotine/Tar Limits, Plans Wider Controls

Youth Smoking Reduction Goals Drive New Measures Including Plain Packaging The Indonesian government aims to finalize maximum nicotine and tar level standards for cigarettes by June 2025, with implementation slated for June 2026. This initiative, coordinated by the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture, is part of a broader strategy under the National Medium-Term […]

Uzbekistan Senate Approves Law Banning E-Cigarettes and Related Products

The Senate of Uzbekistan’s Oliy Majlis (Parliament) has approved significant legal amendments aimed at prohibiting the circulation of electronic cigarettes, liquids, and potentially heated tobacco systems within the country. The new law tightens requirements and establishes both administrative and criminal liability for handling these products illegally.

Does Vaping Affect Sleep? Nicotine’s Impact Explained

In our demanding modern world, quality sleep isn’t a luxury—it’s a fundamental pillar of health and well-being. Yet, habits like vaping might be silently undermining our nightly rest. As e-cigarettes gain popularity, particularly among young adults, understanding their potential impact on sleep quality becomes increasingly important. Does that evening vape session interfere with your ability […]

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Egypt Cigarette Prices Stable Despite Tax Stamp Hike

Rumors Persist, But Official Prices Unchanged Since Late 2024 Despite ongoing speculation and a recent increase in the value of tax stamps (“banderoles”) affixed to packs, official cigarette prices in Egypt remain unchanged, with no new price hikes announced by manufacturers or the Ministry of Finance. Rumors frequently circulate regarding cigarette costs, prompting close consumer […]