Reports indicate UK vapers are hoarding disposable e-cigarettes as a new sales ban approaches next month, with online sales surging.
Read moreSmoking on shared apartment building balconies in Russia can result in fines ranging from 500 to 1,500 rubles, according to Sergey Kolunov, Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Construction, Housing and Communal Services. He emphasized that the ban on smoking in common areas of residential buildings, such as elevators and stairwells, also extends to these shared balconies.
Common Area Smoking Ban Includes Balconies, Hookahs
Kolunov noted that residents might mistakenly believe shared balconies are separate from common подъезд (entrance hall/stairwell) areas, but this is incorrect. The restrictions apply equally to smoking hookahs in these locations. Furthermore, if smoke from an individual’s private apartment balcony causes discomfort to neighbors, they are entitled to contact the police. This advice aligns with legal expert Alexander Karabanov, who previously suggested calling the police for neighbors smoking on balconies, citing both discomfort and fire safety concerns. The Russian government is also reportedly evaluating a bill to increase fines for smoking near schools.
- News source: Россиянам рассказали о штрафах за курение на балконе
The Malaysian state of Perlis will prohibit the sale of vapes, or electronic cigarettes, starting August 1st. Menteri Besar (Chief Minister) Mohd. Shukri Ramli announced the decision, citing a 2022 ruling by the Perlis State Fatwa Committee which declared vape use haram (forbidden).
Read moreThe Selangor state government will make a decision regarding a potential ban on the sale of electronic cigarettes (vapes) after the State Executive Council (MMKN) reviews a dedicated working paper on the matter. Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari confirmed he has instructed Public Health and Environment Executive Councilor Jamaliah Jamaludin to prepare this paper.
Read moreIndustry groups in Malaysia argue vape bans fuel illicit trade and harm consumers, advocating for regulation over prohibition.
The Malaysian Vape Chamber of Commerce (MVCC) has issued a strong caution to policymakers. The group warns that implementing outright bans on vape sales will likely drive consumers towards a dangerous black market. They advocate for a regulatory approach that prioritizes consumer safety, industry sustainability, and economic contributions.
Read moreAnalysis of Namibia’s surging N$1.4B vape & hookah imports, insights for industry, and upcoming regulatory changes impacting the market.
Namibia has experienced a dramatic surge in the importation of water pipe tobacco (hookah), vapes, and related mixtures. Between 2021 and 2024, the country imported over N$1.4 billion worth of these products. This figure marks a substantial increase from just N$108.2 million recorded in 2020, according to data from the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA).
Read moreAn essential guide to Spain’s upcoming e-cigarette regulations, detailing public bans, product restrictions, fines, and what vapers must know.
Spain prepares to implement significant changes to its vaping laws. The government aims to tighten regulations on e-cigarettes. These new rules will reshape the vaping experience for residents and visitors alike. Minister Mónica García leads the Health Ministry’s comprehensive anti-vaping plan. Authorities expect to roll out this plan by late 2025.
Read moreTexas lawmakers divided on whether to ease or strengthen mandatory DAEP placement for students caught vaping, amid concerns over effectiveness & fairness.
Texas lawmakers are currently debating the future of a controversial state law that mandates students caught with e-cigarettes on campus be removed to a disciplinary alternative education program (DAEP). The strict two-year-old rule has led to a significant spike in students being kicked out of their regular schools, prompting pushback from educators, some politicians, and public health officials who question its effectiveness and fairness.
Read moreProposed Russian law seeks to prohibit sales of tobacco, vapes & hookahs at public transport stops to limit youth access & passive smoking.
Russian lawmakers are considering a bill that would prohibit the sale of cigarettes, vaping products, nicotine-containing items, and hookahs at all public transport stops across the country. The legislation, introduced to the State Duma by deputies from the Khabarovsk Territory, aims to reduce the accessibility of these products, particularly to students, and to combat passive smoking.
Read moreHighlights Rising Underage Use, Drug Lacing Concerns, and Calls for Stronger Federal Action
The Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) has issued an urgent call for both federal and state authorities in Malaysia to immediately ban the sale and use of all vape and e-cigarette products. Citing an escalating crisis of use among children and teenagers, some as young as eight, CAP emphasizes the need for decisive action to protect young lives.
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