Entries by Matthew Ma

Louisiana Lawmakers Approve Vape Tax Hike, Reject Cigarette Tax

The Louisiana House Ways and Means Committee has taken a split stance on tobacco taxation, approving a bill to increase the state tax on vapes and e-cigarettes while rejecting a proposal to raise the tax on traditional cigarettes. The vote against the cigarette tax hike was 7-4, while the legislation to increase the tax on […]

Wisconsin Sees Decline in Underage Tobacco and Vape Sales in 2024

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has announced a noteworthy decrease in the rate of underage tobacco and vape sales by retailers in 2024. According to the annual Synar Survey, a statewide assessment of retailer violation rates, the percentage of retailers selling to underage consumers dropped from 13.6% in 2023 to 11.8% in 2024. […]

Illegal Vapes Targeting Teens Openly Displayed at Public Expos

Across the country, flashy and highly publicized conventions are showcasing an endless array of products that are not only illegal under federal law but also dangerous, addictive, and targeting America’s youth. At a recent expo in Miami, a dazzling display of e-cigarettes, or vapes, featured a wide range of enticing flavors, from Banana Taffy and […]

South Korea E-Liquid Imports Surge Amid Synthetic Nicotine Loophole

South Korea witnessed a dramatic rise in e-liquid imports last year, reaching $85.64 million – a 39.5% increase from 2023, according to customs data. This upward trend continues, with first-quarter 2025 imports already up 8.5% year-over-year. Critics argue this surge highlights a significant “regulatory blind spot” concerning synthetic nicotine.

Australia’s Missteps Fuel Thriving Black Market Vapes, Europe Should Take Note

Australia’s recent budgetary woes, with tobacco excise tax revenue nearly halved since 2019 and estimated cumulative losses of A$10 billion (€5.6 billion) by 2029, have been tied to the country’s thriving black markets for tobacco and nicotine products. Experts warn that this illicit trade boom is a direct consequence of Australia’s draconian approach to vaping […]