Brazil Orders YouTube, Instagram, TikTok to Remove Vape Content Within 48 Hours

Government Cracks Down on Illegal Online Promotion and Sales of E-cigarettes

The Brazilian government has ordered major digital platforms, including YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Mercado Livre, and Enjoei, to immediately remove all content that promotes or sells electronic cigarettes (vapes) and related prohibited products. The notification, issued by the National Council to Combat Piracy (CNCP) under the National Consumer Secretariat (Senacon), gives the platforms a maximum of 48 hours to comply.

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Maldives Proposes Mandatory ID Checks for Tobacco Sales

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Following last year’s laws raising the tobacco purchase age to 21 and establishing a generational ban (for those born after Jan 1, 2007), the Maldives is considering stricter enforcement. An amendment proposed by MP Ali Ashrag would require tobacco sellers to demand official government ID if they doubt a buyer’s age.

This places greater responsibility on vendors, potentially involving penalties for non-compliance. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu emphasized the urgency, noting that over 30% of the population falls under the generational ban. The move, alongside a previous vape import ban, aims to solidify the nation’s plan for a tobacco-free generation.

North Dakota Removes Vape Registry from AG Budget Bill

Concerns Over Business Impact Sideline Proposed E-cigarette Restrictions

The North Dakota House of Representatives approved the Attorney General’s Office budget on April 29, but notably without a contentious provision that would have created a state registry for electronic smoking devices. Critics, including smoke shop and gas station owners, had argued the registry posed a significant threat to small businesses.

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Ukraine Confirms Excise Stamp Requirement for Disposable Vapes

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Tax Authority Clarifies Rules Based on Liquid Content

The Main Directorate of the State Tax Service in Ukraine’s Zakarpattia region has clarified that disposable electronic cigarettes are subject to mandatory excise tax stamping. This requirement stems from the classification of the liquids used within these devices as excisable goods.

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Kazakhstan Approves New Tax Code: VAT Set at 16%, Excise Hikes for Tobacco & HTPs

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Majilis Passes Reforms Aimed at Simplification and Differentiated Rates

Deputies in Kazakhstan’s Majilis (lower house of parliament) have approved a new Tax Code in its second reading, introducing significant changes aimed at simplifying the system and adjusting tax rates across various sectors. The reforms include setting the standard Value Added Tax (VAT) rate and outlining phased increases for excise duties on alcohol, tobacco, and heated tobacco products (HTPs).

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CAPHRA Urges Malaysia: Reject Vape Bans, Use Regulation

Advocates Criticize WHO, Cite Risks of Illicit Markets

The Coalition of Asia Pacific Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates (CAPHRA) is urging Malaysian authorities to reject calls for vape bans and instead implement risk-proportionate regulations under the new Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852). CAPHRA argues that outright bans are counterproductive and risk fueling illicit markets, similar to experiences in Bhutan and South Africa.

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UK Government Pledges Consultation on Vape Flavours After Petition Hits Milestone

Response Acknowledges Flavours’ Role for Adult Smokers Amid Youth Protection Goals

A petition urging the UK government to reconsider proposed restrictions on vape flavours under the new Tobacco and Vapes Bill has surpassed the 10,000-signature threshold, triggering a formal government response. While reaffirming its intention to regulate flavours to protect children, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has pledged further public consultation before implementing specific restrictions and acknowledged the importance of flavours for adult smokers seeking to quit.

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Indonesia Targets June 2025 for Setting Nicotine/Tar Limits, Plans Wider Controls

Youth Smoking Reduction Goals Drive New Measures Including Plain Packaging

The Indonesian government aims to finalize maximum nicotine and tar level standards for cigarettes by June 2025, with implementation slated for June 2026. This initiative, coordinated by the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture, is part of a broader strategy under the National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN) 2025-2029 to significantly reduce smoking prevalence among young people aged 10-21.

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Uzbekistan Senate Approves Law Banning E-Cigarettes and Related Products

The Senate of Uzbekistan’s Oliy Majlis (Parliament) has approved significant legal amendments aimed at prohibiting the circulation of electronic cigarettes, liquids, and potentially heated tobacco systems within the country. The new law tightens requirements and establishes both administrative and criminal liability for handling these products illegally.

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Egypt Cigarette Prices Stable Despite Tax Stamp Hike

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Rumors Persist, But Official Prices Unchanged Since Late 2024

Despite ongoing speculation and a recent increase in the value of tax stamps (“banderoles”) affixed to packs, official cigarette prices in Egypt remain unchanged, with no new price hikes announced by manufacturers or the Ministry of Finance. Rumors frequently circulate regarding cigarette costs, prompting close consumer attention.

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