HEADLINE

Smoore International donates HK$5 million to aid Big Bay fire victims, marking its first charity donation in 2025.

CIDG-Laguna Provincial Field Unit seizes $200k worth of illegal cigarettes and e-cigarettes, arrests four suspects. PNP vows to continue crackdown.

2Firsts, November 28, 2025 — The Legislative Assembly of Perm Krai has passed a law banning the retail sale of vape products and other nicotine-aerosol devices, effective March 1, 2026. Individuals found selling such items will face fines between ₽15,000–₽20,000 (about US $180–240), while companies face ₽50,000–₽100,000 (about US $600–1,200). The ban covers all electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), heated-tobacco devices, and their components, regardless of nicotine content.

Vietnam’s National Assembly has debated amendments to the Investment Law that would include e-cigarettes, heated tobacco, and nitrous oxide (N₂O) in the list of prohibited business activities. Lawmakers supported a total ban consistent with WHO recommendations and previous National Assembly resolutions, citing rising youth addiction rates. Finance Minister Nguyễn Văn Thắng confirmed that the ban would apply comprehensively, with a short transition period for foreign factories.

HMRC announces e-cigarette tax stamp plan to combat illicit trade starting October 1, 2026 alongside VPD policy enforcement.

8 youths aged 18-24 were caught for e-cigarette offenses, with enforcement jointly carried out by HSA and IHLs.

The State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) and the State Tobacco Monopoly Administration (STMA) jointly announced the launch of the 2026 National Standardization Project for E-cigarettes. The initiative, coordinated by the National Technical Committee on Standardization of E-cigarettes, aims to enhance the industry’s regulatory framework through new standards on manufacturing, storage, distribution, and evaluation.