Indiana residents who smoke or vape will see higher prices starting July 1st, as a new law doubling the tax on cigarettes and other tobacco products takes effect. This marks the state’s first tax hike on these products in nearly 20 years. The tax on a pack of cigarettes will increase by $2, bringing the total state tax to $3 per pack.
Read moreSmoking continues to be a major global health problem, causing over eight million premature deaths annually, including 1.3 million from secondhand smoke, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). New analysis reveals that Indonesia, China, and South Korea have some of the highest smoking rates globally, particularly driven by an overwhelming prevalence among men.
Read moreRecent significant increases in tobacco taxes in the Netherlands, aimed at curbing smoking rates, have led to a substantial rise in Dutch smokers purchasing cheaper tobacco products abroad, according to new research by the Dutch public health agency. While the tax hikes did result in some smokers quitting or reducing consumption, the ease of cross-border shopping in a small, wealthy country is undermining the policy’s overall effectiveness.
Read moreA coalition of Georgia lawmakers and prominent public health organizations is intensifying efforts to raise the state’s cigarette tax, which currently stands as the second-lowest in the nation. Advocates argue that an increase would not only discourage smoking and improve public health outcomes but also generate significant revenue to help offset the substantial healthcare costs associated with smoking-related illnesses. This renewed push comes as federal budget cuts impact state-level tobacco prevention programs.
Read moreIndonesia is grappling with a severe public health crisis as the number of active smokers reaches 70 million, with an alarming 7.4% of teenagers aged 10-18 now using tobacco. The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) has warned that without decisive action, overall smoking prevalence could hit 37.5% by 2025. This concerning trend is exacerbated by a tenfold increase in e-cigarette (vape) use by 2023 and a dramatic surge in child smokers, some initiating the habit as young as four years old.
Read moreThe Provincial Government of DKI Jakarta, in collaboration with the regional legislature (DPRD), is finalizing a comprehensive Draft Regional Regulation (Raperda) on Smoke-Free Areas (Kawasan Tanpa Rokok – KTR). This new legislation aims to significantly strengthen public health protections by strictly regulating locations where smoking is prohibited and introducing substantial administrative sanctions for violations. Crucially, the DPRD, with support from the Governor, is pushing for these regulations to treat vaping (e-cigarette use) on par with conventional smoking, subjecting it to the same restrictions and penalties.
Read moreThe Lithuanian Seimas (parliament) has rejected a legislative proposal aimed at raising the minimum age for possessing, using, and selling tobacco products, electronic cigarettes, and their refills from 18 to 21 years. The amendments to the Law on Control of Tobacco, Tobacco Products and Related Products were introduced by Jurgita Sejonienė, a member of the Seimas Health Affairs Committee.
The proposal, which would have taken effect from early 2029, sought to align Lithuania with a growing number of countries adopting a “Tobacco 21” policy. Proponents argued it would positively impact public health by reducing smoking-related diseases and deaths, including lung cancer. However, the bill failed to pass, with 26 deputies voting in favor, 30 against, and 30 abstaining. The Seimas also did not agree to further refine the initiative.
- Read more: Lithuania Implements New Tobacco and Related Product Sales Regulations Starting January 1, 2025
Critics like Liberal MP Andrius Bagdonas questioned the move, stating it was an attempt to “discriminate against young people” by implying they cannot make rational decisions. Conversely, former Seimas speaker Viktoras Pranckietis supported the bill, noting, “This law would have allowed [young people] not to start smoking until the age of 21.” Currently, the legal age for purchasing and consuming tobacco and e-cigarettes in Lithuania remains 18.
Russia is considering a proposal to increase fines for smoking in the common areas of apartment buildings by up to 30 times the current penalties. Federation Council member Oleg Golov initiated the suggestion, arguing that the current administrative fines, ranging from 500 to 1,500 rubles, are too insignificant to deter the practice.
Read moreThe Spanish government is preparing to expand its list of public places where smoking traditional cigarettes and using vapes (e-cigarettes) will be prohibited, El Pais reports. This move aims to ensure healthier and more comfortable spaces for the entire population, with a particular focus on protecting vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women.
Read moreNorth Carolina lawmakers are considering a bill to raise the legal age for purchasing tobacco and vape products from 18 to 21, aiming to align state law with existing federal regulations. A legislative meeting is scheduled for Tuesday to discuss the proposal, which is co-sponsored by Rep. Donnie Loftis (R-Gaston) and Rep. Gale Adcock (D-Wake).
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