Entries by Matthew Ma

South Carolina Lawmakers Propose Bill to Regulate Vaping Products

South Carolina lawmakers are once again pushing for stricter regulation of vaping products in the state. A new bill, similar to one that passed the Senate unanimously in 2023(H.3681) but stalled in the House, would introduce significant changes to how electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), commonly known as vapes, are sold and marketed.

Chinese Vape Tariff Hits 35% as U.S.-China Trade War Escalates

New 10% Levy Compounds Existing 25% Tax on Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems Effective February 4, 2025, the United States imposed a new 10% tariff on a wide range of products imported from China, including the majority of vaping devices used by American consumers. This additional levy, the first punitive measure taken by the second Trump […]

Tobacco and Vapes Bill Raises Concerns Over “Big Puff” Disposable Vapes

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill, set to be considered by MPs, has drawn criticism for potentially approving a new super-size disposable vape known as “Big Puff.” Amendments in the bill, proposed by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), would allow these devices to hold up to six times more e-liquid than current disposable […]

Proposed Tobacco and Vapes Bill in England Considers Licensing Fees

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill in England, which aims to regulate the sale of tobacco and vaping products, is currently making its way through the legislative process. Having completed the Committee stage in the House of Commons, the bill will next move to the Report Stage and 3rd Reading, with dates yet to be determined.

,

Belarus Smoking Ban May Expand to More Public Spaces

Belarus may soon see an increase in the number of places where smoking is prohibited, as a new bill seeking to regulate the production, circulation, and consumption of tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and vaping devices, has recently completed its public discussion phase. If passed, the legislation would add areas such as the entrances and adjacent […]

Where Tourists Can and Cannot Vape: A Global Guide

Vietnam has recently joined the Maldives in banning the import and use of vapes and e-cigarettes as of January 2025. This move raises the question of which other popular tourist destinations among Russians have similar restrictions in place. In this article, we will provide an overview of the current vaping regulations in various countries and […]

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 […]