Nicotine Whispers: 2026 | Weeks 31 & 32
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 31 and 32 Highlights:
EU
EU Daily Tobacco & Nicotine Use Declines
Daily use of tobacco and related nicotine products fell to 16.5% in 2025, from 17.5% in 2022. The decline was recorded in 17 EU countries, with Spain and Luxembourg seeing the largest reductions.
UK
Northern Ireland Moves Ahead on Vape Controls
Northern Ireland will introduce new youth-protection measures from October 2026, including sales restrictions and a ban on free distribution. Meanwhile, England has delayed consultations on its proposed tobacco and vape retail licensing scheme until 2027.
USA
FDA Authorizes Four More Nicotine Pouches
The FDA authorized four additional on! nicotine pouch products through the PMTA pathway. The agency now lists 30 authorized nicotine pouch products, highlighting lower harmful-constituent levels than traditional tobacco products.
EU
Italy & Greece Challenge Ireland’s Nicotine Bill
Italy and Greece oppose Ireland’s proposed flavour bans, plain packaging and display restrictions for e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches. Both countries cite trade barriers, proportionality concerns and potential conflict with the EU’s revised Tobacco Products Directive.
Iceland
Iceland Proposes Tighter Nicotine Rules
Iceland proposes plain packaging for tobacco, nicotine limits and possible flavour restrictions for nicotine products. The bill would also tighten online, cross-border sales and penalties.
USA
Noncombustible Nicotine Gains Ground in Young US Adults
US cigarette smoking is declining among young adults as e-cigarettes and other noncombustible nicotine products gain ground. The study found dual use remained stable, suggesting a shift away from combustible tobacco rather than simply adding alternatives.
Australia
Australia Tightens Nicotine Pouch Imports
New rules place nicotine pouches under Australia’s therapeutic goods framework, restricting imports of unapproved products. The move extends the country’s strict regulatory approach to another smoke-free nicotine category.