Nicotine Whispers: 2026 | Weeks 43 & 44
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 43 and 44 Highlights:
USA
FDA Authorises 24 VELO Nicotine Pouch Products
The US FDA has granted marketing authorisation to 24 VELO nicotine pouch products manufactured by a Reynolds American subsidiary, marking BAT’s first FDA authorisations for the brand in the US. The decision covers eight product varieties, all containing 4 mg of nicotine, and brings the total number of FDA-authorised nicotine pouch products to 67.
UK
UK Extends Ban on Nicotine Product Sales to Under-18s
The UK has banned the sale of all vaping and nicotine products, including nicotine pouches, to under-18s, closing previous regulatory loopholes. Up to £30 million in annual funding will support Trading Standards enforcement, including retailer inspections and penalties for non-compliance.
EU
EU Reduces Proposed Minimum Nicotine Pouch Tax Ahead of November Decision
The latest EU compromise proposal would reduce the future minimum excise duty on nicotine pouches from €80 to €50 per kilogram, while retaining the alternative calculation of 50% of retail price. The revised proposal is intended to address Sweden’s objections, with EU finance ministers expected to discuss the wider tobacco taxation reform on 9 November.
USA
US Nicotine Pouch Use More Than Triples Among Adult Tobacco Users
A University of Cincinnati study found that current nicotine pouch use among US adult tobacco users increased from 3% in 2021 to 10.2% in 2024, while ever-use rose from 16.4% to 31.1%. Growth was particularly strong among men, adults aged 21–45 and existing smokeless tobacco users, highlighting increasing adoption alongside other nicotine products.
Sweden
Swedish Match Faces Broader Labelling Order Over ZYN Products
Sweden’s Public Health Agency has ordered Swedish Match to revise ZYN nicotine pouch ingredient labels, arguing that individual flavouring substances must be disclosed rather than grouped under the general term “flavourings”. The company faces a conditional penalty of SEK 2 million per month for non-compliance and has indicated that it intends to appeal.
Germany
Germany’s Tobacco Tax Drafting Error Creates E-Cigarette Tax Loophole
A technical error in Germany’s amended tobacco tax legislation has created legal uncertainty over e-liquid excise duties for 2026. The Finance Ministry has instructed customs to continue collecting existing tax rates while preparing a legislative correction, with the planned increases still scheduled for 1 January 2027.
Vietnam
Vietnam Proposes Online Tobacco Sales Ban and Expanded Restrictions
Vietnam’s government has submitted draft amendments that would prohibit online tobacco sales and extend regulatory provisions to e-cigarette components and liquids, nicotine pouches, shisha and other tobacco-related products. The proposal could take effect on 1 July 2027 if approved.
Canada
Canada Rejects Proposal for Generational Tobacco and Vape Ban
Canada’s federal government has confirmed it is not considering a lifetime ban on tobacco and vaping sales to future generations, despite pressure from health advocacy groups to follow the UK model. The debate highlights differing approaches to nicotine regulation, with industry groups warning of potential impacts on retailers and the convenience sector.
Ukraine
Ukraine Tightens Vape Retail Licensing and Bans DIY Nicotine Kits
Ukraine requires retailers to hold specific licenses to sell tobacco products and e-cigarette liquids, while prohibiting the retail sale and free distribution of raw tobacco, nicotine extracts and e-liquid mixing components.