Entries by Matthew Ma

Over 6 Million Illicit Vapes Seized in England in Past Three Years

Across England, a hidden battle is being waged in corner shops, warehouses, and even behind cleverly disguised walls. Trading Standards officers are on the front lines, tackling a surge in the illicit vape trade. New analysis by the BBC reveals the staggering scale of the problem: over six million illegal vaping products have been confiscated […]

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Why Airplanes Still Have Ashtrays When Smoking Is Banned?

It’s a common observation for many air travelers, whether seasoned flyers or occasional vacationers: nestled somewhere onboard, often in or near the lavatory, sits an ashtray. This small feature might seem like a curious relic from a bygone era, especially given the strict, universally enforced bans on smoking during flights that have been in place […]

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Estonia Bans Sale of Flavored Heated Tobacco Products

In a move to align with European Union directives, the Estonian parliament, Riigikogu, has passed amendments to the Tobacco Act, prohibiting the sale of flavored and aromatic heated tobacco products in the country. The bill, which was adopted on Wednesday, April 23, received overwhelming support from the deputies, with 68 voting in favor, seven against, […]

Tahiti Proposes Sweeping New Tobacco and Vape Regulations

French Polynesia’s Minister of Health, Cédric Mercadal, has presented a draft law aimed at significantly modernizing and strengthening regulations governing tobacco and vaping products across Tahiti and its islands. The proposed legislation focuses on reducing product accessibility and appeal, particularly among minors.

Hamburg Customs Seizes Illegal Vapes, Prevents €730k Tax Loss

Customs investigators in Hamburg, Germany, have dismantled a significant illegal e-cigarette operation, seizing nearly 3,000 liters of illicit vape liquid and preventing an estimated €730,000 in tax losses. Officials announced the successful raid on Wednesday, confirming the provisional arrest of four suspects linked to gang-related tax evasion.

Limeira: First Brazilian City to Ban Vapes in Public Spaces

The city of Limeira, located in the interior of São Paulo, has become the first in Brazil to implement a law restricting the use of electronic cigarettes in public spaces. The new legislation, which also prohibits the sale and consumption of these devices by minors under the age of 18, aims to protect the health […]

Greece Considers Ban on Flavored E-Cigarettes

Greece’s conservative government is preparing a bill that would ban all flavored alternative tobacco products, with the exception of natural tobacco and mint flavors, as part of a broader effort to restrict minors’ access to alcohol and tobacco products. The move follows incidents of teenagers fainting in a nightclub after consuming excessive amounts of alcohol, […]

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US-China Vape Tariffs (>100%): Navigating the Impact on Industry & US Consumers

The complex web of international trade significantly influences the global vaping market, particularly the relationship between the United States and China. China stands as the dominant manufacturing powerhouse for the vast majority of vape hardware—devices, pods, coils, batteries—that fill the shelves of American vape shops and convenience stores. However, recent dramatic escalations in US trade […]

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Russia Cuts Smoking Rate by More Than Half Since 2009

Russia has seen a significant decline in the number of smokers since 2009, with the smoking rate among adults aged 15 and above dropping from 39.5% to 18.6%, according to Health Minister Mikhail Murashko. The minister credited the success to the implementation of anti-tobacco measures in the country. The announcement was made during the 2nd […]