Entries by Matthew Ma

9 Out of 10 Smokers Quit or Reduce Smoking Through Vaping in Spain

A recent study conducted by the Union of Promoters and Entrepreneurs of Vaping (UPEV) and Sigma Dos reveals that vaping has helped 90% of users either quit traditional tobacco or significantly reduce their consumption. The report, titled ‘Habit and Use of Electronic Cigarettes,’ surveyed vapers across four Spanish cities—Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville. It also found that […]

Malta’s New €0.13/ml Vape Tax: What Vapers Need to Know in 2025

Significant changes to vaping regulations took effect in Malta starting January 1st, 2025. The government has implemented a new excise duty on all vape liquids and introduced stricter licensing requirements for importers. These changes impact everyone in the Maltese vaping community, from suppliers to end consumers. Here’s a breakdown of what these new rules entail […]

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.

South Korea Urges Taxation of Synthetic Nicotine E-Cigarettes

The National Assembly Research Service has released a report advocating for the taxation of synthetic nicotine e-cigarettes, citing concerns over tax equity and public health. The report, titled “Issues and Improvement Measures Related to E-cigarette Regulation,” calls for amending the legal definition of tobacco to include raw materials such as nicotine, regardless of the manufacturing […]

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.