Nicotine Whispers: 2025 | Weeks 01 & 02
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 01 and 02 Highlights:
Belgium
01 January – The Guardian
Belgium becomes first EU country to ban sale of disposable vapes
Belgium became the first EU country to ban disposable vapes from January 1, citing health risks and environmental concerns. The move aims to prevent youth nicotine addiction and reduce hazardous waste. Similar measures, including smoking bans, are expanding across Europe to curb tobacco use and environmental damage.
Japan
02 January – 2Firsts
Future Technology Co., Ltd. Launches Japan’s First Zero-Nicotine Pouch
Future Technology Co., Ltd. will release « The Third IZUMI, » Japan’s first nicotine-free pouch, on January 1, 2025. Priced at 242 yen ($1.50), it comes in four flavours and is produced in Kagoshima Prefecture.
USANicotine Pouches Aid Smoking Cessation and Shift to Online Sales
A 2024 survey revealed 80% of nicotine pouch users switched to quit smoking or improve health, with 92% reporting better health after switching. Online sales dominate, with 81% of purchases made digitally, driven by convenience and variety. Flavour preferences and bans also shape consumer behaviour, with mint leading as the top choice.
UKVapes Bring Bigger Profits to Convenience Stores
Vapes are four times more profitable than tobacco for convenience stores, with sales rising nine-fold from 2019 to 2022, a University of Edinburgh study finds. Researchers highlight vaping’s benefits for retailers and call for stricter seller regulations.
UKVIA Criticizes Lack of Vaping Voices at Bill Hearings
UKVIA condemned the absence of vaping industry and consumer representation at Tobacco and Vapes Bill hearings, warning it could hinder vaping’s role in quitting smoking. The association is hosting a parliamentary event to present its views.