Entries by Matthew Ma

Mexico’s Vape Ban: Congress and States Must Harmonize Laws by 2025

Mexico has recently amended its Constitution to include a ban on vaping devices and electronic cigarettes, igniting a heated debate between supporters and opponents. Both sides are urging the federal Congress and state legislatures to enact regulatory laws to align existing legal frameworks with the new constitutional provision.

Trump and RFK Jr.: A Call to Revolutionize Tobacco Regulation

The new administration under President Trump and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. presents a pivotal opportunity to address one of the leading causes of preventable death in the United States: smoking. By reforming the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the administration could make it easier for smokers to access safer alternatives like e-cigarettes, heated tobacco, […]

Taiwan Implements Strict Vaping Ban with Hefty Fines

Taiwan has officially enforced a vaping ban following amendments to the Tobacco Hazards Prevention Act. The National Police Agency confirmed that individuals caught vaping can now face on-the-spot fines of up to TWD 10,000 (approximately $330). This move aims to curb the use of e-cigarettes and heated-tobacco products across the country.

Osaka Bans Smoking and Vaping on Streets with Fines

Osaka, Japan, has announced a new policy prohibiting smoking on all city streets, effective January 27, 2025. The ban covers all forms of smoking, including conventional cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and vaping devices, which were previously less regulated in certain areas. With a population of approximately 2.75 million, Osaka is now one of Japan’s largest cities to […]

South Dakota’s HB 1069 Aims to Curb Illegal Chinese Vape Imports

South Dakota lawmakers are taking action against the influx of unregulated vaping products from China with HB 1069, a bill designed to enforce stricter regulations on vapor products. Sponsored by State Representative Brian Mulder and Senator Sydney Davis, the legislation aims to ensure that vaping products sold in the state meet FDA standards and are free […]

French Parliament Moves Towards Banning Disposable Vapes

On February 4th, French deputies unanimously voted in favor of a bill aimed at banning disposable e-cigarettes, commonly known as “puffs.” The legislation, sponsored by several elected officials including Francesca Paquini and Michel Lauzzana, seeks to combat the proliferation of these single-use devices.

Spain Imposes New Tax on E-Cigarettes and Nicotine Pouches Starting April 1st

Starting April 1/2025, Spain will implement a new tax on e-cigarette liquids and nicotine pouches, as outlined in the Royal Decree-Law of December 23, commonly known as the Omnibus Decree. The tax aims to generate revenue while addressing public health concerns, but critics argue it could undermine harm reduction efforts for smokers.

Russia Vape Sales to Minors Now Fines Up to 2M Rubles

Russian President Vladimir Putin enacted legislation on February 3 significantly increasing fines for selling tobacco, vapes, and hookahs to minors. The updated penalties now reach 2 million rubles for businesses, with stricter enforcement targeting nicotine product accessibility among youth. Published on Russia’s official legal portal, the law revises Article 14.53 of the Administrative Offenses Code to address […]

Poland Proposed Double Tax on Vaping Products

The Polish government approved a draft amendment in January to expand excise taxes on nicotine alternatives, including reusable e-cigarettes, heated tobacco devices, and nicotine pouches. The proposal introduces a 40 PLN per-unit tax on vaping hardware and parts, while increasing taxes on disposable e-liquid content by 40 PLN. Industry groups warn this could raise retail […]