Entries by Matthew Ma

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Belarus Smoking Ban May Expand to More Public Spaces

Belarus may soon see an increase in the number of places where smoking is prohibited, as a new bill seeking to regulate the production, circulation, and consumption of tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and vaping devices, has recently completed its public discussion phase. If passed, the legislation would add areas such as the entrances and adjacent […]

Where Tourists Can and Cannot Vape: A Global Guide

Vietnam has recently joined the Maldives in banning the import and use of vapes and e-cigarettes as of January 2025. This move raises the question of which other popular tourist destinations among Russians have similar restrictions in place. In this article, we will provide an overview of the current vaping regulations in various countries and […]

TPD Update: No E-Cigarette Discussions Planned for 2025

The European Commission’s annual work programme, set to be unveiled next week, reportedly excludes any discussion on updating the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD). This decision comes as a surprise to vaping industry professionals, who have been anticipating potential regulatory changes in 2025.

UK Disposable Vape Ban: Fines, Prison for Retailers

The UK government has unveiled strict penalties for retailers who violate the upcoming disposable vape ban, set to take effect on 1 June 2025. Businesses caught selling single-use vapes after this date could face fines of up to £5,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs […]

Smoke-Free Products Drive Philip Morris to Exceed Q4 Forecasts

Philip Morris International (PMI) reported impressive fourth-quarter results, surpassing market expectations thanks to robust sales of smoke-free products like vapes and nicotine pouches. The tobacco giant posted a 7.3% year-on-year revenue increase, reaching $9.71 billion for the quarter ending December 31, 2024. This figure comfortably exceeded the consensus forecast of $9.44 billion.

Bulgaria Proposes Full Ban on Vapes Amid Concerns Over Illegal Sales

Bulgaria’s GERB-SDS party, backed by the left-wing coalition BSP-Left Union and “Vazrazhdane,” is pushing for a complete ban on the sale of vaping products and energy drinks to minors. Social Minister Borislav Gutsanov supports the initiative, while DPS-New Beginning leader Delian Peevski suggests stricter import controls instead of an outright ban. The Ombudsman’s Office has […]

Norway’s New Vape Regulations Guide for Consumers, Retailers

Norway is set to experience significant changes in its vaping regulations, aiming to strike a balance between public health concerns and consumer demand. As the country prepares to lift its ban on nicotine-containing e-cigarettes and implement new restrictions on flavored e-liquids, it’s crucial for manufacturers, retailers, and consumers to understand the implications of these forthcoming […]

Philippines House Approves Two Tobacco Bills to Combat Tax Losses and Smuggling

The Philippines House of Representatives has passed two critical bills aimed at addressing revenue losses and smuggling in the tobacco and vaping industries. House Bill 11360, which seeks to rationalize excise tax rates, and House Bill 11286, which mandates a track-and-trace system for tobacco products, both cleared their final readings with overwhelming support.

Michigan Governor Proposes New Tax on Vapes and Nicotine Pouches

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has proposed a new 32% wholesale tax on nicotine products, including e-cigarettes and oral nicotine pouches. The tax would align these products with existing levies on most tobacco items, closing what state officials call a “loophole” in current regulations. The move aims to reduce nicotine consumption, particularly among youth, while generating […]

Nebraska Proposes 20% Tax on Vapes and Nicotine Alternatives

Nebraska State Senator Jana Hughes has introduced LB 125, a bill that seeks to impose a 20% sales tax on alternative nicotine products and electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS). The legislation aims to bring these products under the same regulatory and taxation framework as traditional cigarettes and other tobacco products.