Select Nicotine Whispers: 2025 | Weeks 13 & 14
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 13 and 14 Highlights:
Poland
Philip Morris Invests Nearly PLN 1 Billion in Krakow
Philip Morris has modernised its Krakow facility with a PLN 1 billion investment, creating over 300 jobs and advancing its smoke-free product production, including IQOS ILUMA i tobacco inserts.
Luxembourg
Luxembourg Faces Backlash Over Proposed Nicotine Pouch Ban
Luxembourg’s draft Bill to impose strict nicotine limits and health warnings on pouches has drawn criticism from the European Commission, Greece, and Sweden, claiming it could disrupt the market.
USA
FDA Overhaul: Mass Layoffs and Leadership Shake-Up Stir Controversy
The FDA has dismissed tobacco chief Brian King and other top officials in a major restructuring, igniting debates over the agency’s future and potential legal challenges.
Spain
Spain introduces new tax on e-cigarette liquids
A new tax on e-liquids, aligning them with traditional tobacco, takes effect in Spain, with rates based on nicotine content to discourage consumption.
Poland
Poland faces conflicting vape bills amid government turmoil
Two opposing e-cigarette bills in Poland—one proposing a full ban, the other restricting sales to minors—highlight government disarray and regulatory uncertainty.
Belgium / EU
Leaked EU plan proposes high taxes on nicotine pouches
A leaked European Commission document reveals plans for steep EU-wide taxes on nicotine pouches, sparking concerns over economic impact and potential growth in illicit trade.
Russia
Russia considers e-cigarette ban, sparking concerns
Proposed restrictions on e-cigarette sales in Russia could lead to a full ban, raising fears of black market growth and economic strain on small businesses.
Australia
Australian council launches vape recycling trial
Hobsons Bay City Council has introduced a vape recycling pilot to reduce environmental impact and recover valuable materials. The trial runs until 17 April at designated drop-off points.
UK
Imperial Brands unveils 2030 strategy for growth
Imperial Brands’ 2030 strategy focuses on strengthening traditional tobacco markets and expanding Next Generation Products to drive sustainable growth and value creation.
UK
The Economic and Public Health Impact of Smoking Ban
A UK-wide smoking ban could generate 135,000 jobs and boost the economy by £10 billion a year, according to a report by Action on Smoking and Health (ASH).