Entries by Matthew Ma

Australia: NSW Cracks Down on Illegal Vapes with Jail Time & Evictions

New Laws to Introduce Jail Time, Hefty Fines, and Forced Shop Closures The New South Wales (NSW) government is set to introduce some of the nation’s toughest laws to combat Sydney’s booming illicit cigarette and vape trade. The new legislation, to be introduced when parliament resumes next month, will include potential prison terms of up […]

Vaping Nearly 3x More Effective Than Gum to Quit Smoking

In a major clinical trial that could significantly influence public health strategies, researchers have found that vaporized nicotine products (VNPs), commonly known as vapes or e-cigarettes, are nearly three times more effective than traditional nicotine replacement therapies (NRT) like gum or lozenges at helping low-income smokers quit. The study underscores the potential of vaping as […]

South Korea Bans E-Cigarette Vending Machines Near Schools

South Korea’s National Assembly has passed an amendment to the “Education Environment Protection Act,” effectively banning the installation and operation of liquid e-cigarette vending machines in designated school protection zones. The bill was proposed by Assemblywoman Kang Kyung-sook of the Rebuilding Korea Party.

Indonesian Vape Producers Urge Government to Lower Excise Taxes

The Indonesian E-liquid Producers Association (PPEI) is calling on the government, specifically the Directorate General of Customs and Excise and the Fiscal Policy Agency (BKF), to re-evaluate and lower the current excise tariff structure for e-cigarettes. While commending the government for not increasing excise rates this year, the association warns that previous hikes have had […]

Kyrgyzstan Cigarette Prices Surge 66.7% Since 2021

The average price for a pack of filtered cigarettes in Kyrgyzstan has climbed significantly, driven by new government policies aimed at controlling tobacco product costs. This price hike is part of a broader strategy that includes setting minimum prices for cigarettes, vapes, and heated tobacco items.

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Is It Illegal to Vape/Smoke and Drive in Colorado?

From the bustling streets of Denver to the scenic mountain passes of the Rockies, drivers in Colorado often have questions about what is and isn’t permissible behind the wheel. With the rise of vaping, a common query is: “Is it illegal to vape and drive in Colorado?” This guide provides an in-depth look at Colorado’s […]

Roundup of July 2025 Enforcement Actions on Illegal Vape

July 2025 has proven to be a pivotal month in the global fight against the illicit e-cigarette trade. Law enforcement and customs agencies from Asia to Europe and the Americas have launched significant operations, resulting in the seizure of millions of dollars’ worth of illegal vaping products. This roundup details the key enforcement actions from […]

California Ranks Lowest for Youth Vaping in the U.S.

California has achieved the lowest rate of youth vaping among all U.S. states, according to a new study by the American Lung Association. The research, which analyzed data collected between 2019 and 2023, also shows California with the lowest percentage of high schoolers who smoke traditional cigarettes or use tobacco products in general.