Entries by Matthew Ma

How UK Retailers Should Prepare for the Single-Use Vapes Ban

UK retailers are on the cusp of significant legislative changes impacting tobacco and vape sales. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill, having cleared the House of Commons and now undergoing scrutiny in the House of Lords, introduces two landmark measures: a ‘generational smoking ban’ (GSB) and a complete ban on disposable (single-use) vapes.

Russian Deputy Proposes Total Ban on Vape-Related Content on Social Media

Bryansk Regional Duma Deputy Mikhail Ivanov has called for a comprehensive ban on vaping-related content across social media platforms in Russia. In an appeal to Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Grigorenko, Ivanov highlighted concerns over the uncontrolled promotion of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) online and its impact on youth.

New York’s Proposed Ban on Flavored Nicotine Pouches Stalls

New York’s efforts to ban flavored nicotine pouches, such as Zyn, have hit a roadblock due to intense lobbying from the tobacco industry and its allies. The proposed legislation, sponsored by Democratic Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal and Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal, aimed to prohibit most flavored pouches, except for menthol, in an effort to prevent marketing to […]

Greece’s Proposed Vape Flavor Ban Threatens Public Health Progress

Consumer advocates and vaping organizations from Greece and across Europe are raising concerns over the Greek Ministry of Health’s proposed ban on all vape flavors except tobacco and menthol. The Greek Vapers’ Alliance and the World Vapers’ Alliance (WVA) warn that this measure could undermine the country’s significant progress in reducing smoking rates and jeopardize […]

Texas Proposes Ban on Disguised Vape Pens Targeting Kids

Vape pens designed to look like highlighters, USB drives, and even soda cans could soon be banned in Texas under a new bill filed in the state legislature. Lawmakers argue that these disguised devices are intentionally aimed at minors, helping them hide vaping habits from parents and teachers.

Russia to Implement Tobacco Sales Licensing in 2026

The Russian government has approved a comprehensive licensing system for tobacco product sales, including vapes and hookahs. Set to launch in fall 2026, this initiative requires all tobacco retailers to obtain special permits from Rosalkogoltobakregulirovanie. Key Points: This move aims to tighten control over tobacco sales, potentially impacting the industry landscape and consumer access to […]

Philippines Expects Vape Stamps to Reduce Excise Tax Gap

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) in the Philippines is optimistic that the implementation of vape stamps will help narrow the excise tax gap in 2025. BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui highlighted this strategy as a response to changing consumer preferences and challenges in tax collection.