In a groundbreaking development for the tobacco industry, Zimbabwe is poised to become a regional hub for the production of vape products, according to recent announcements made by former Zimbabwean Ambassador to China, Cde Christopher Mutsvangwa. The country plans to establish a multi-billion dollar vape production factory that will extract nicotine from tobacco stalks, leaves, and flowers to create non-smoking alternatives, capitalizing on its position as the fourth largest tobacco exporter in the world. Read more

The Ministry of Health of Costa Rica has issued Resolution MS-DM-RC-2381-2024, which prohibits the import, commercialization, and sale of vaporizers and their supplies, particularly those containing artificial nicotine or liquids with cannabinoids. This preventive measure, which took immediate effect upon its publication, has sparked a wave of reactions and debate among the affected sectors. Read more

In a press conference held on Friday, Health Minister Izabela Leszczyna announced that her department has drafted a bill to prohibit the sale of disposable e-cigarettes to children and teenagers under the age of 18. The minister expressed her hope for swift implementation of the new legislation, stating that she will be seeking the Prime Minister’s support in this matter. Read more

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced that it is seeking civil money penalties (CMPs) from 10 retailers for selling unauthorized Elf Bar e-cigarettes. The agency’s decision comes after the retailers failed to correct violations highlighted in previous warning letters, as discovered during follow-up inspections.

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The World Health Organization (WHO) and global tobacco industry watchdog “STOP” have recently released a report titled “Hooking the Next Generation,” urging governments worldwide to protect youth from the harms of the tobacco and nicotine industries. This report comes in light of the upcoming World No Tobacco Day on May 31, as governments, health organizations, and monitoring groups release data on youth smoking in their respective countries. Ecigator, a leading authority on e-cigarette trends and research, has compiled and analyzed youth smoking data from various countries, revealing a notable decline in youth smoking rates but a concerning rise in e-cigarette use.

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As the new Vape Law is set to take effect in June, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is gearing up to enforce stricter regulations on the vape industry in the Philippines. DTI Undersecretary Amanda Nograles announced at a forum organized by Bantay Konsumer, Kalsada, Kuryente (BK3) in Makati that all vape products must be registered with the agency, and importation and manufacturing of vaporized nicotine, non-nicotine products, and novel tobacco products will now undergo a rigorous certification process.

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Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s surprise announcement of a snap election on May 22 has effectively shelved the contentious Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which was close to becoming law after passing through the House of Commons in April. Read more

The Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan has taken a significant step towards regulating the vape and heated tobacco market in the country. On May 18, the cabinet approved Resolution No. 290, which establishes the Technical Regulation on Tobacco Products, setting forth requirements for vapes and heated tobacco. Read more

North African countries are gradually warming up to the concept of tobacco harm reduction, acknowledging the potential role of alternative nicotine products in mitigating smoking-related health issues. Morocco, Algeria, and Egypt are among the nations considering harm reduction strategies alongside traditional anti-smoking initiatives. While the region’s stance on vaping products varies by country, it is generally characterized by cautious regulation.

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As we enter the year 2024, the worldwide vape market is undergoing a significant transformation due to the implementation of new regulations aimed at addressing pressing health concerns and environmental issues. Governments across the globe are tightening their control over e-cigarettes, with a particular focus on banning single-use devices (disposable vapes) and restricting flavors that appeal to minors. This comprehensive article provides an in-depth overview of the latest developments in global e-cigarette policies, highlighting the key changes that are reshaping the industry and their potential impact on consumers, manufacturers, and public health.

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