Nicotine Whispers: 2025 | Weeks 09 & 10
Alchem NicSelect™ Nicotine Whispers
Welcome to Nicotine Whispers – a biweekly news digest on global developments in nicotine and tobacco, compiled by Alchem NicSelect™ in collaboration with PharmaCompass.
Stay informed on the latest regulations, market trends, and insights shaping the NGND industry.
Weeks 09 and 10 Highlights:
Germany
Germany’s Tobacco Industry Pushes for Nicotine Pouch Legalisation
Tobacco giants are lobbying for nicotine pouches to be legalised in Germany, arguing that they offer a lower-risk alternative to cigarettes and could generate tax revenue.
France
France Bans Nicotine Pouches Amid Growing EU Restrictions
France has banned nicotine pouch sales, joining other European countries imposing restrictions due to health concerns. The EU lacks unified regulations, but brands like ZYN, VELO, and Nordic Spirit face increasing scrutiny.
Switzerland
Alchem NicSelect™ Grants Free Access to T-MAX™ Technology
Alchem NicSelect™ grants key customers licence and royalty-free access to T-MAX™ technology to provide vape satisfaction in flavour restricted countries.
Finland
Finland to Ban Nicotine Pouch Flavours
Finland’s revised Tobacco Act will ban flavours in nicotine pouches, except for mint and menthol, while capping nicotine levels at 16.6mg/g. If approved, the ban could take effect by March 20.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria Backsteps on Blanket Vape Ban
Bulgaria has reversed its decision to ban all vapes, now focusing only on disposable ones. Lawmakers cite youth vaping concerns and regulatory delays for the shift, but a total ban remains under discussion.
Poland
9 months to adapt: New Tobacco Bans Incoming
The Senate Health Committee approved an amendment enforcing the EU directive, banning flavoured heated tobacco products. The industry has nine months to comply.
Italy
Italy Leads Europe’s Heated Tobacco Market with 15% Growth
Italy remains Europe’s top market for heated tobacco, valued at $4.5bn in 2024, with strong brand loyalty towards Iqos and Glo. The shift towards healthier alternatives and herbal stick usage marks the evolving consumer landscape.