Starting April 1, 2025, more than 51,000 shops across Malaysia will be required to comply with a new ban on displaying tobacco products at sales counters. This move follows the enforcement of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852), which came into effect on October 1, 2024, along with its associated regulations and orders.
Read moreAs part of Belgium’s ongoing efforts to curb tobacco consumption, tobacconists throughout the country will be required to hide cigarettes from public view starting Tuesday, April 1st, 2025. This measure, originally slated for implementation on January 1st, was approved nearly two years ago by the Council of Ministers as part of a comprehensive anti-smoking plan.
Read moreIn a bid to curb the rising trend of vaping, particularly among youth, the Thai government has introduced a new tip-off app and cash rewards for reporting e-cigarette use and sales violations. As of March 26th, informants can receive 3,000 baht (approximately $88 USD) if a violator is fined, with penalties for vaping in public set at 5,000 baht (around $147 USD).
Read moreIn an open letter to Chancellor Rachel Reeves, small retailers and corner shop owners from across the country have expressed their grave concerns about the Labour Government’s Spring Forecast and the proposed restrictions on advertising freedoms within the Tobacco and Vapes Bill. The letter, signed by prominent retailers such as Atul Sodha of Londis, Harefield, and Kay Patel of Global Food & Wine and Best-one, London, highlights the financial burdens and regulatory pressures that threaten the survival of their businesses.
Read moreThe Armenian government has approved amendments to the “Code of Administrative Offenses of the Republic of Armenia” to increase fines for selling tobacco products that do not meet the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) standards. The decision comes as the transitional period for compliance with EAEU technical regulations, which began in 2016, is set to end on January 1, 2024.
Read moreVaping has undergone a remarkable transformation in pop culture, evolving from a niche habit to a mainstream lifestyle statement. This timeline explores the key moments and trends that have shaped the perception and popularity of vaping in entertainment and society.
Read moreThe Philippines has been steadily increasing excise taxes on tobacco products in recent years, with the latest adjustments taking effect on March 22, 2025. These tax hikes are part of the government’s ongoing efforts to discourage smoking and raise revenue for the country’s universal healthcare program.
Read moreBrazil has witnessed a significant increase in the seizure of electronic cigarettes, commonly known as “vapes,” in 2024, despite a long-standing prohibition by the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) since 2009. The state of São Paulo, in particular, saw a sevenfold increase in confiscated devices compared to the previous year, highlighting the growing popularity of the product in the face of strict regulations.
Read moreThe UK House of Commons has taken a significant step towards creating a “smoke-free generation” by passing the Tobacco and Vapes Bill. If the bill becomes law, anyone born on or after January 1, 2009, will be prohibited from legally purchasing and smoking tobacco products.
Read moreBulgaria, as a member of the European Union, has been regulating vapes under the European Directive since March 2025. The legal framework sets limits on nicotine concentration in e-liquids, tank and bottle volumes, and requires leak-proof protection and safe filling mechanisms. Packaging must also include a mandatory warning about nicotine’s addictive nature, occupying at least 30% of the label surface.
Read more