Entries by Matthew Ma

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Malaysia’s Tobacco Display Ban to Affect Over 51,000 Shops

Starting April 1, 2025, more than 51,000 shops across Malaysia will be required to comply with a new ban on displaying tobacco products at sales counters. This move follows the enforcement of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852), which came into effect on October 1, 2024, along with its […]

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Belgian Tobacconists Must Hide Cigarettes Starting April 1st

As part of Belgium’s ongoing efforts to curb tobacco consumption, tobacconists throughout the country will be required to hide cigarettes from public view starting Tuesday, April 1st, 2025. This measure, originally slated for implementation on January 1st, was approved nearly two years ago by the Council of Ministers as part of a comprehensive anti-smoking plan.

Thailand Offers Cash Rewards for Reporting Vaping Violations

In a bid to curb the rising trend of vaping, particularly among youth, the Thai government has introduced a new tip-off app and cash rewards for reporting e-cigarette use and sales violations. As of March 26th, informants can receive 3,000 baht (approximately $88 USD) if a violator is fined, with penalties for vaping in public […]

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Armenia Increases Fines for Non-Compliant Tobacco Products

The Armenian government has approved amendments to the “Code of Administrative Offenses of the Republic of Armenia” to increase fines for selling tobacco products that do not meet the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) standards. The decision comes as the transitional period for compliance with EAEU technical regulations, which began in 2016, is set to end […]

Timeline: The Evolution of Vaping in Global Pop Culture

Vaping has undergone a remarkable transformation in pop culture, evolving from a niche habit to a mainstream lifestyle statement. This timeline explores the key moments and trends that have shaped the perception and popularity of vaping in entertainment and society.

Maldives to Introduce Generation Smoking Ban

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu of the Maldives has announced plans to introduce a generation ban. The announcement came during the President’s podcast, “Rayyithunnaa Eku” [With Citizens], where he discussed existing measures and future plans to control tobacco use in the country.

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Pregnant Women Advised to Avoid Mentholated E-Cigarettes Due to Potential Risks to Developing Baby

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of California, Riverside has shed light on the potential risks of vaping during pregnancy, particularly when using e-cigarettes containing the flavor chemical menthol. The findings, published in STEM CELLS Translational Medicine, suggest that even low concentrations of menthol could adversely affect early stages of embryonic development.