Former Tobacco Reporter Editor-in-Chief Taco Tuinstra Joins 2Firsts as Global Editor-in-Chief

Jan.09
Tuinstra’s appointment will propel 2Firsts’ international expansion to a new level.

January 9, 2025 – Leading media and consultancy in the Next-Generation Products (NGPs) industry, 2Firsts, has announced the appointment of Taco Tuinstra as its new Global Editor-in-Chief. A former Editor-in-Chief of Tobacco Reporter, Tuinstra brings decades of expertise to 2Firsts, marking a pivotal moment in the company’s growth and its commitment to global expansion.

 

Former Tobacco Reporter Editor-in-Chief Taco Tuinstra Joins 2Firsts as Global Editor-in-Chief
Taco Tuinstra with 2Firsts Co-Founders Alan Zhao and Echo Guo | Image Credit: 2Firsts

 

Taco Tuinstra is widely regarded as one of the most influential journalists in the global tobacco sector. Over his nearly three decades at the helm of Tobacco Reporter, he demonstrated exceptional editorial acumen, sharp industry insights, and unwavering professionalism, transforming the publication into the undisputed benchmark for industry journalism. His coverage spanned critical issues such as global trade networks, illicit distribution channels, and groundbreaking innovations in Next-Generation Products (NGPs). His reporting took him across the globe, underscoring his deep commitment to the industry and the principles of journalism.

 

Commenting on his new role at 2Firsts, Tuinstra said: “It is an honor to join 2Firsts as Global Editor-in-Chief. True to its name, 2First is a first-rate operation, and I look forward to contributing to the company’s continued growth and success.

 

‘The legacy and longevity of Tobacco Reporter combined with the youthful drive and ambition of 2Firsts is a winning formula and I am excited to explore the many synergies that our cooperation promises.”

 

2Firsts Co-Founder and CEO Alan Zhao spoke highly of Tuinstra’s appointment: “Taco is a visionary journalist whose dedication to the global tobacco and Next-Generation Products (NGP) industries and commitment to professional media reporting align seamlessly with 2Firsts’ mission. His addition represents a significant boost to our team and underscores our commitment to delivering top-quality content to industry professionals worldwide. Under his leadership, we are confident that 2Firsts will provide more authoritative reporting and unique insights, leveraging the power of media to drive transformation and progress in the global tobacco and NGP industries while advancing the harm reduction agenda on a global scale.”

 

Tuinstra’s arrival comes at a critical juncture for 2Firsts as the organization continues to expand its international presence. In just three years since its founding, 2Firsts has emerged as a globally recognized media and consultancy in the NGP field. Its reporting and research are widely cited and shared among industry leaders, and it is a trusted media partner for major global exhibitions and conferences. In 2025, 2Firsts plans to strengthen its global reporting, research capabilities, and professional services, further promoting innovation and compliance-driven high-quality development across the global tobacco and NGP industries.

 

 

2Firsts welcomes article submissions, interview opportunities, or commentary. Please contact us at info@2firsts.com or connect with 2Firsts CEO Alan Zhao on LinkedIn here.

 

InterTabac 2025 | Interview with German Vaping Trade Association: Opposition to Flavor and Disposable Bans as Black Market and Compliance Dominate the Agenda
InterTabac 2025 | Interview with German Vaping Trade Association: Opposition to Flavor and Disposable Bans as Black Market and Compliance Dominate the Agenda
During InterTabac 2025, 2Firsts spoke with the German vaping trade association (Verband des eZigarettenhandels e. V. (VdeH)). The association noted that while Germany’s market continues to grow, the black market may account for nearly half of total volume; disposables are reshaping retail channels. VdeH is firmly opposed to flavor bans and disposable bans, arguing such measures would expand the black market and drive users back to cigarettes.
Sep.19 by 2FIRSTS.ai
China's e-cigarette exports reach $936 million in August 2025, up 5.27% from July
China's e-cigarette exports reach $936 million in August 2025, up 5.27% from July
China's e-cigarette export trade increased by 5.27% in August 2025, reaching $936 million, driven by strong performance in the US.
Sep.25 by 2FIRSTS.ai
2Firsts Exclusive: Dr. Zdinak Analyzes FDA’s Rejection of blu, Citing Lack of Behavioral Evidence
2Firsts Exclusive: Dr. Zdinak Analyzes FDA’s Rejection of blu, Citing Lack of Behavioral Evidence
In a 2Firsts exclusive, ARAC’s Dr. Zdinak explains FDA’s blu rejection stems from weak behavioral science data and urges companies to strengthen Module 6 studies immediately.
Aug.20
UK MHRA Approved E-cigarette Products List Updated | 46 SKUs Approved, INNOKIN Submits New Products Across Multiple Categories(9.1 - 9.7)
UK MHRA Approved E-cigarette Products List Updated | 46 SKUs Approved, INNOKIN Submits New Products Across Multiple Categories(9.1 - 9.7)
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) database was updated with 46 e-cigarette SKUs from September 1-7, with Shenzhen INNOKIN Technology Co., Ltd. (INNOKIN) being the most active, having multiple new devices and pods approved. Meanwhile, although the number of updates has decreased, pre-filled pods remain the most approved category this week.
Sep.08
Australia's tobacco tax revenue has halved in five years, with the illegal cigarette market exceeding $4 billion
Australia's tobacco tax revenue has halved in five years, with the illegal cigarette market exceeding $4 billion
Australia's tobacco tax revenue is falling to its lowest point in a decade, projected to be just $4.9 billion in the 2025-26 fiscal year, nearly half the amount collected in 2019-20. This decline is primarily due to the prevalence of illicit cigarettes, which exceeded $4 billion in the black market in 2022-23 and generated an estimated $6.6 billion in revenue for criminal organizations. Medical professionals warn that cheap, contraband cigarettes on the streets are driving a resurgence in smokin
Sep.24 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Company | JTI Cambodia Awarded “Gold Tax Compliance Certificate”
Company | JTI Cambodia Awarded “Gold Tax Compliance Certificate”
Japan Tobacco International (Cambodia) Co., Ltd. has received the “Gold Tax Compliance Certificate,” valid for 2026–2027, marking the company’s third consecutive recognition.
Sep.05 by 2FIRSTS.ai