Nicotine Whispers: 2025 | Weeks 37 & 38
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 37 and 38 highlights:
Ireland
Ireland’s Vape Tax to Take Effect by Year-End
Ireland’s delayed levy of 50c per ml on e-liquids is now set to be implemented by the end of 2025. It comes alongside wider vaping restrictions, including a planned ban on disposables and tighter flavour rules.
USA
Altria and KT&G Sign MOU to Collaborate on Nicotine and Wellness Products
The companies will explore joint growth in modern oral nicotine pouches, non-nicotine wellness products, and operational efficiencies in traditional tobacco. Initial steps include Altria taking a stake in KT&G’s LOOP brand and collaborating on energy and wellness products in the U.S.
Belgium – EU
EU to Assess Health Impact of Nicotine Products in 2025
The European Commission will, for the first time, evaluate e-cigarettes, heated tobacco, and other nicotine products during the upcoming tobacco directive revision. The review, based on WHO guidance and EU-funded research, comes amid calls for stricter regulation and higher taxes.
USA
PMI’s €43B EU Investment Generates €290B Impact
Between 2019 and 2023, Philip Morris International invested over €43 billion in the EU, supporting 1 million jobs and €33 billion in exports. The company also poured €23 billion into R&D and continues to expand its smoke-free product strategy across Europe.
Sweden
Emplicure Launches SERATEK® Nicotine Pouch
The patented bioceramic pouch delivers fast nicotine release and high consumer preference over competitors. A new Uppsala facility will produce up to 880 million cans annually, supporting global market expansion.
USA
FDA Launches Pilot to Ease Nicotine Pouch Reviews
The FDA will relax certain study requirements for nicotine pouch makers, streamlining approvals for brands like Zyn, On!, and Velo. The pilot marks a shift toward softer regulation of smoking alternatives, though critics warn of youth risks and safety gaps.
Belgium – EU
Europe to Ban Smoking and Vaping on Terraces by 2027
From January 1, 2027, smoking, vaping, and hookah use will be banned on outdoor terraces of cafes, bars, and restaurants across major European cities. The rules will also scrap indoor smoking rooms and enforce a 10-meter smoke-free zone around hospitality venues.
UK
BAT Expands Italian Factory with 16 New Production Lines
The Trieste site will produce heated tobacco and nicotine pouches, creating 150 new jobs by 2026. The expansion adds 6,300 m² and is part of BAT’s €500 million five-year investment plan in Italy.