UK Providing 259,000 Free Vapes Under Swap to Stop Scheme

The UK government is supplying local authorities with 259,000 free vaping starter kits as part of its Swap to Stop smoking cessation initiative. The program aims to encourage and support smokers to quit through switching to less harmful vaping alternatives.

The vape provision comes alongside a hard-hitting new NHS smokefree campaign launched in January 2023. It features former professional soccer goalkeeper David James discussing his experiences with smoking and what ultimately motivated him to stop.

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UK Government to Propose First-Ever Vape Tax in March Budget

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The UK government is expected to announce a new tax on vaping products when it unveils the national budget on March 6th. This would mark the first time vaping has been taxed since e-cigarettes arrived in the UK market nearly 15 years ago.

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New Worldwide Vape Regulations in 2024: Flavor Bans, Marketing Limits

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As 2023 ends, several countries have passed new vape regulations set to take effect on/after January 1, 2024. These incoming laws include restrictions on flavors, marketing tactics, taxes and more. Here’s an in-depth look at some key vape regulations worldwide and their potential impacts. Read more

Singapore Intensifies Vape Enforcement, Fines Tourists Carrying Vapes at Changi Airport

Authorities to Conduct Checks at Air, Land, and Sea Checkpoints

Singapore has tightened its law enforcement efforts against tourists entering the country with electronic vaporizers, also known as vapes. This move is part of a global crackdown on the use of e-cigarettes, as reported by Bloomberg.

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Vape Bans in Kyrgyzstan May Backfire on Public Health

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Kyrgyzstan is considering legislation to institute a nationwide ban on vapes and e-cigarettes. However, experts argue this could ignorantly stifle harm reduction efforts while fueling hazardous black market trade.

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Singapore Cracking Down on Tourists Bringing Vapes

Seeking to curb illegal vaping, Singapore authorities will soon begin stop and search enforcement against arriving tourists found traveling with e-cigarettes or vape gear.

Operations launch at Changi Airport, subjecting deplaning visitors to checks for vapes or components. Anyone caught possessing electronic cigarettes faces heavy fines under existing law. Read more

Lithuania To Ban Import of Sweetened Vape by 2024

Concerned over growing youth addiction, Lithuania recently passed legislation prohibiting the import of vape liquids containing added sweeteners or sugar starting November 2024.

On December 15th, 2023, the Lithuanian parliament (Seimas) overwhelmingly voted to amend existing tobacco control laws, banning future imports of sweetened nicotine e-liquids for electronic cigarettes.

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Belgium Introduces New Vaping Tax in 2024

As the clock struck midnight on January 1, 2024, Belgium ushered in a new era for vapers with the introduction of a tax on e-liquids used in electronic cigarettes. The tax, set at 15 cents per milliliter, has sparked controversy among users and retailers who fear it may lead to higher costs and drive some back to traditional tobacco cigarettes.

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Singapore Strengthens Joint Enforcement to Curb E-Cigarette Circulation

Ministry of Health to Collaborate with Other Agencies in Crackdown on E-Cigarettes

Despite Singapore’s ban on the sale and use of e-cigarettes, the Ministry of Health (MOH) has noted that the public still has access to these products. In response, the MOH plans to intensify joint enforcement efforts and public education to combat the circulation of e-cigarettes, according to a report by Lianhe Zaobao on December 19.

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Ireland Bans Selling Vapes to Minors in Landmark Reform

A new public health law going into effect in Ireland prohibits retailers from selling vapes and e-cigarettes to anyone under age 18. First announced by Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly earlier this year, the legislation aims to curb rising youth vaping rates. Read more