Nicotine Whispers – Weeks 50 & 51
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 50 and 51 Highlights:
France
09 December – News Powered by Cision
BAT France Advocates for Nicotine Pouches as a Smoking Alternative
BAT France asserts that nicotine pouches can effectively help smokers reduce tobacco use, supporting stricter regulations to prevent youth access while promoting adult-only marketing. The company urges collaboration between government, health groups, and industry to achieve France’s goal of a smoke-free generation by 2032. Regulation, not prohibition, is seen as key to reducing the nation’s stagnating 31% smoking rate.
Russia
09 December – RuNews24
Russian Authorities Seize Illegal Production of E-liquids
Police in Krasnodar uncovered an illegal operation producing nicotine-containing vape liquids, seizing over 250,000 bottles worth 250 million rubles. Equipment, packaging materials, and 10 tons of liquid were also confiscated during the raid. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the operation.
Mexico
10 December – Reporte Indigo
Protesters in Mexico Oppose Proposed E-Cigarette Ban
Vendors and e-cigarette advocates protested outside the Senate, urging «Ban the Ban!» ahead of a vote on banning e-cigarettes. Protesters warned the ban could fuel a black market and criminalize users, calling instead for science-based regulation to protect consumer rights.
Thailand
11 December – The Pattaya News
Thailand Debates E-Cigarette Legalization
As Thailand’s parliament reviews e-cigarette legalization, nearly 600,000 citizens have signed a petition opposing the move, citing health risks and youth-targeted marketing. Critics argue legalization could harm public health and societal values, while advocates highlight the failure of a total ban and propose regulation to curb illegal markets and generate tax revenue.
Philippines
11 December – Zumo Vape
Japan Tobacco Expands Market Reach in the Philippines
Japan Tobacco plans to grow its market reach with Ploom X in the Philippines, aiming for global expansion to 40+ countries by 2026. With $3 billion allocated to low-risk products, including heated cigarettes, the company projects these alternatives will surpass traditional tobacco sales by 2035.
UK
13 December – Tobacco Insider
Altria Launches SWIC Heated Tobacco Device in the UK
Altria is test-marketing its SWIC heated tobacco device, which uses single-use KETLE capsules available in three flavours (Gold, Red, Green). Priced at £14.49 for starter kits, SWIC features fast charging, a user-friendly screen, and HeatGrid technology for precise heating. Positioned as «the future of heated tobacco,» SWIC aims to rival IQOS and diversify Altria’s portfolio beyond traditional cigarettes.
Poland
14 December – Prawo.pl
Poland Delays New E-Cigarette and Tobacco Legislation Until Q2 2025
Poland’s amended legislation on e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches, delayed due to EU notification procedures, is now expected in Q2 2025. The amendment defines nicotine pouches, restricts sales to minors and certain locations, and adds new regulatory measures. Critics highlight the lack of public consultation and potential legalization of synthetic nicotine pouches, raising concerns about alignment with «smoke-free» goals.
Germany
15 December – Presse Portal
BVTE Opposes Potential Mint-Flavoured E-Cigarette Ban
The BVTE, the German Federal Association of Tobacco and New Products, has criticized potential regulatory moves to ban mint-flavoured e-cigarettes, which comprise 80% of the German market. BVTE warns such a ban could harm consumer safety and hinder smokers’ transition to lower-risk alternatives. Legal challenges and nationwide protests are anticipated if the ban proceeds.
UK
16 December – Investing.com
Imperial Brands’ 2024 Annual Report Highlights
Imperial Brands (IMB) reported a 4.5% increase in group operating profit to £3.54 billion, driven by a 4.6% rise in tobacco and Next Generation Products (NGP) net revenue, including 26.4% growth in NGPs. Regional successes include strong NGP revenue growth in Europe (20.5%) and the Americas (29.4%), bolstered by product launches like the blu bar e-cigarette and iSenzia tea-based heated tobacco. IMB also achieved a 69% reduction in carbon emissions since 2017, aiming for net zero by 2040.