HEADLINE

Philip Morris International's South Africa branch launches e-cigarette product Veev, making South Africa one of 20 countries with PMI's smoke-free products.

According to media reports, a leaked European Commission document indicates the EU plans to push for its strictest regulatory framework on nicotine and tobacco products at COP11 in Switzerland this November, including measures such as a full ban on nicotine pouches and flavoured products.

As the UK prepares to introduce its first-ever vape tax in 2026, questions are growing about how the measure will reshape the country’s harm reduction landscape. IBVTA tells 2Firsts that while it was not in favour of the new duty, it accepts that it is being implemented and is working with regulators to ensure a smooth rollout — warning, however, that higher costs could slow smokers’ transition to safer alternatives.

As the EU finalizes its Cardiovascular Health Plan, public feedback reveals a sharp divide over nicotine policy.A 2Firsts analysis of 677 submissions found that nearly one in four mentioned tobacco — highlighting tension between strict control and harm reduction approaches.

In 2025, global tobacco leaf production surged, but prices stagnated as climate change intensified farming risks. 2Firsts reports from the ITGA meeting, revealing structural challenges and transition pressures in the industry.