Nicotine Whispers: 2025 | Weeks 11 & 12
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 11 and 12 Highlights:
USA
Turning Point Brands Reports Triple-Digit Growth in Nicotine Pouch Sales
Turning Point Brands saw nicotine pouch sales surge in 2024, with FRE nicotine pouches sales more than quadrupling year-over-year and ALP launching successfully in Q4.
Denmark
Denmark to Enforce 9mg Nicotine Pouch Limit from July
Denmark’s new regulation will ban nicotine pouches exceeding 9mg from July, sparking criticism from harm reduction advocates who warn it could push users toward smoking or illicit alternatives.
Philippines
Regulating the Growing E-cigarette Industry
The Philippines tightens e-cigarette regulations under the Vape Regulation Act, enforcing stricter compliance measures and penalties while targeting illicit products to protect consumers and curb youth vaping.
Netherlands
Netherlands to Raise Smoking and Vaping Age to 21
The Dutch government plans to increase the legal smoking and vaping age to 21, crack down on illegal sales, and implement stricter controls to reduce youth vaping. This is part of a broader effort to achieve a smoke-free Netherlands by 2040.
UK
New Vape Laws Criticized for Impact on Small Businesses
A poll shows 95% of UK traders believe new vape laws will hurt small businesses, with many fearing that flavour bans and disposables restrictions will push customers to the black market. Retailers argue that the proposed changes could drive vapers back to smoking, further hurting their businesses.
Italy
Study Finds E-Cigarettes Have No Significant Impact on Lung Function
A critical review of 12 systematic studies shows no significant changes in respiratory function for e-cigarette users, regardless of usage patterns. The research suggests that while short- and medium-term effects are minimal, more long-term studies are needed to draw definitive conclusions.
USA
BAT Expands VELO Plus Production and Market Share in the U.S.
British American Tobacco (BAT) is expanding VELO Plus production in the U.S. with an additional 300 jobs in 2025, following strong growth. VELO Plus has captured a 10% market share in the U.S., fuelled by rapid consumer uptake and retail expansion.
UK
Thousands Quit Smoking Through ‘Swap 2 Stop’ Scheme
Public Health Dorset reports 14,801 free vape kits distributed, helping 3,562 smokers quit in four weeks, reinforcing vaping as an effective quit aid.
Spain
Spain’s E-Cigarette Flavour Ban Under EU Review
Spain’s proposed ban on flavoured e-cigarettes is being reviewed by the EU, with a decision expected by April 28. The tobacco industry warns this could lead to a rise in illegal products and job losses in the sector.