Nicotine Whispers: 2025 | Weeks 15 & 16
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 15 and 16 highlights:
UAE
UAE Approves Synthetic Nicotine Pouches, Cites Sweden’s Success
The UAE has approved synthetic nicotine pouches as a smoking alternative, drawing inspiration from Sweden’s success in reducing smoking rates through similar products. The move aims to help combat the country’s high smoking prevalence.
Brazil
Lobbying in Brazil to Legalise and Regulate E-Cigarettes
BAT Brazil is backing a new bill to establish a regulated e-cigarette market, despite Anvisa maintaining the sales ban. The company is promoting its harm reduction products to sway public and political opinion.
UK
UK Disposable Vape Use Drops Ahead of Upcoming Ban
Use of disposable vapes among 16-24-year-olds has halved ahead of the UK ban, with many switching to reusable devices. Researchers warn the ban may have limited impact on overall vaping rates.
Spain
BAT’s €500M Spain Investment at Risk Due to Tough Tobacco Regulations
BAT’s plan to build a factory in Spain faces hurdles from strict rules on nicotine pouch limits and vape flavours. Regulatory uncertainty may push the investment to Croatia or the Czech Republic.
Greece
PMI Invests €700M in Greek Factory to Expand Smoke-Free Production
Philip Morris International has invested €700 million in transforming its Greek affiliate Papastratos into a global hub for heated tobacco products. The factory now exports to over 40 countries and supports PMI’s smoke-free shift with advanced automation, sustainability, and strong economic contributions.
USA
28 U.S. States Urge Crackdown on Illegal Chinese E-Cigarettes
State attorneys general are pressing the federal government to curb the influx of unregulated Chinese e-cigarettes targeting youth. They demand stricter border enforcement, harsher penalties, and coordinated federal action.
Switzerland
Basel Considers Ban on Disposable E-Cigarettes Amid Legal Uncertainty
Basel’s Grand Council has backed a proposal to ban disposable vapes, but the government seeks a softer approach due to potential conflict with federal law. Similar bans in Valais and Jura and a national debate keep the issue in flux.
Philippines
Philippines Maintains Ban on Flavoured Vape Products
The Department of Justice has confirmed that the ban on vape flavours other than plain tobacco or menthol remains in force under RA 11467. This stands alongside RA 11900, with both laws seen as complementary rather than contradictory.
USA
FDA Insider Slams Tobacco Oversight Failures Under Biden Administration
Former FDA staffer David Oliveira reveals deep dysfunction in the agency’s tobacco control efforts, citing regulatory inaction on illicit Chinese vapes and youth-targeted products. He calls for urgent leadership reform and stronger enforcement.
Russia
Russian Government Rejects Vape Sales Ban Proposal
The Russian government has rejected a bill aiming to ban the sale of vapes and e-liquids, maintaining its stance from earlier this year. Despite ongoing discussions, the proposal is unlikely to move forward in the near future