Court Rules State Law Unlawfully Infringes on Federal Authority
A federal judge has blocked nearly all provisions of a new Iowa law (House File 2677) that aimed to restrict the sale of e-cigarette products based on their U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval status. Chief U.S. District Judge Stephanie Rose ruled the law likely violates the U.S. Constitution’s Supremacy Clause by improperly attempting to enforce federal regulations.
Read moreIt’s a common observation for many air travelers, whether seasoned flyers or occasional vacationers: nestled somewhere onboard, often in or near the lavatory, sits an ashtray. This small feature might seem like a curious relic from a bygone era, especially given the strict, universally enforced bans on smoking during flights that have been in place for decades. The lingering presence of these ashtrays sparks a natural question: if lighting up mid-flight is strictly forbidden and carries hefty penalties, why do even brand-new airplanes still come equipped with them? The answer lies not in condoning smoking, but firmly in the realm of passenger safety and regulatory foresight.
Read moreThe complex web of international trade significantly influences the global vaping market, particularly the relationship between the United States and China. China stands as the dominant manufacturing powerhouse for the vast majority of vape hardware—devices, pods, coils, batteries—that fill the shelves of American vape shops and convenience stores. However, recent dramatic escalations in US trade policy have imposed tariffs on these crucial imports that soar past the 100% mark, creating a seismic shockwave felt throughout the supply chain and ultimately, by consumers at the checkout counter. While the exact tariff percentage became a moving target during its rapid implementation in mid-2025, with figures reported as high as 170%, the fundamental reality is clear: any tariff substantially exceeding 50% acts as a formidable economic barrier, fundamentally altering the dynamics of trade. This guide delves into the implications of this extreme tariff environment, exploring what it means for vaping industry professionals in both the US and China, and how it directly impacts the choices and costs facing American consumers.
Read moreAustralia’s recent budgetary woes, with tobacco excise tax revenue nearly halved since 2019 and estimated cumulative losses of A$10 billion (€5.6 billion) by 2029, have been tied to the country’s thriving black markets for tobacco and nicotine products. Experts warn that this illicit trade boom is a direct consequence of Australia’s draconian approach to vaping regulation, which includes limiting the legal sale of vapes to pharmacies and implementing sweeping flavor bans.
Read moreAustralia is grappling with a rapidly expanding illicit tobacco market, a crisis marked by stark price discrepancies, lost tax revenue, and escalating organized crime. While a legal pack of 20 cigarettes costs around AUD $40 due to massive tax hikes, black market alternatives flood the streets for as little as AUD $15. This underground economy isn’t just about cheap smokes; it’s increasingly linked to violent crime, including extortion rackets and arson attacks targeting retailers involved in the trade. This alarming situation raises critical questions: are Australia’s tobacco control policies inadvertently fueling the very problems they aim to solve?
Read moreThe landscape for vaping products in the United States is more dynamic and complex than ever. As of April 9, 2025, state legislatures across the country are actively debating and enacting laws that could fundamentally reshape the market. Two dominant, yet distinct, regulatory trends have emerged, creating uncertainty and high stakes for consumers, manufacturers, and retailers alike: the rapid proliferation of state-level Premarket Tobacco Product Application (PMTA) registry laws and the continued push for comprehensive flavor bans. Understanding these trends, the forces driving them, and their potential impacts is crucial for anyone involved in the vaping space. This post dives into the current state of play, examining key legislative battles and what they signify for the future of vaping in the U.S.1
Read moreThe current federal regulatory framework governing vaping products in the United States stands as a major impediment to innovation and consumer access, argue critics within the industry and harm reduction communities. At the heart of the issue lie the 2009 Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act (TCA) and the subsequent 2016 FDA “deeming rule,” which mandated the burdensome Premarket Tobacco Product Application (PMTA) process for all vaping products introduced after February 2007. This regulatory pathway requires extensive, costly scientific data submissions for agency review before a product can be legally marketed.
Read moreMexico’s recent ban on vapes and electronic cigarettes faces significant public disapproval. A study from El Colegio de México reveals that an overwhelming nine out of ten people believe the prohibition is failing. Data supports this sentiment, showing the ban correlates with increased illegal vape sales and rising nicotine consumption, particularly among young people.
Read moreVaping products are being increasingly pushed underground in both the United States and the United Kingdom, as a new research highlights the growing consequences of poor regulatory decisions. This shift not only sends a negative message about harm reduction tools but also compromises consumer safety, as these products enter the unregulated market.
Read morePresident 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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