Entries by Matthew Ma

Hong Kong Vape Laws: Ban, Penalties & Travel Rules

Hong Kong maintains one of the world’s most stringent regulatory environments for electronic cigarettes (vapes) and related devices, collectively termed Alternative Smoking Products (ASPs). Since April 30, 2022, a comprehensive ban has prohibited the import, manufacture, sale, distribution, and promotion of these products within the city. This decisive action reflects the Hong Kong government’s strong […]

Philippines DOH Reaffirms Strong Stance Against Vapes and Tobacco

The Philippines Department of Health (DOH) leadership strongly reaffirmed the agency’s opposition to tobacco and vape products during a meeting with health advocates on Thursday, April 10th. DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa and Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo met with representatives from HealthJustice Philippines to discuss the nation’s commitment to the World Health Organization Framework Convention on […]

Alabama Imposes 10-Cent Per Milliliter Tax on Vape Products

The Alabama House Ways and Means General Fund Committee has passed HB529, a bill that introduces a 10-cent per milliliter tax on the retail sale of consumable vapor products in the state. This tax will be applied on top of the existing Alabama sales tax, with the consumer responsible for covering the additional cost.

Vape and Travel? These Countries Could Land You in Jail

Thinking of packing your vape for your next international trip? You might want to reconsider. While vaping might be commonplace in places like Luxembourg or parts of the US, the legal landscape globally is a complex patchwork. Many popular tourist destinations have implemented strict anti-vaping laws, ranging from hefty fines to, in some cases, actual […]

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Vape in Mexico? What Every Traveler MUST Know in 2025

Planning a trip to Mexico? If you vape, understanding the country’s strict laws regarding electronic cigarettes and vaping devices is crucial for a hassle-free visit. Mexico has significantly tightened its regulations, impacting what you can bring into the country and where you can vape. This guide breaks down the current situation as of April 2025, […]

Young Asians Switching from Cigarettes to Vaping and Heated Tobacco Products

A recent survey conducted by Milieu Insight, a consumer research and data analytics company, has revealed that young people in Southeast Asia are increasingly turning to vaping and heated tobacco products (HTPs) as alternatives to traditional cigarettes. The study, which polled over 18,000 legal-age adults across Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Indonesia, examined consumption […]

Basel Grand Council Proposes Ban on Disposable E-Cigarettes

The Basel Grand Council has submitted a proposal to the government to ban the sale of disposable e-cigarettes in Basel-Stadt. The government expressed its willingness to accept the order, but only in a less binding form, arguing that a cantonal ban would violate higher-ranking federal law.

Oklahoma Senate Bill Aims to Regulate Vapor Products

The Oklahoma Legislature is considering a bill that would impose new requirements on manufacturers of vapor products to ensure compliance with FDA regulations and protect public health. Senate Bill 1102, authored by Sen. Bill Coleman (R-Ponca City), advanced to an oversight committee on Wednesday, signaling progress in the state’s efforts to regulate the vaping industry.