Entries by Matthew Ma

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.

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 […]