Nicotine Whispers: 2025 | Weeks 17 & 18
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 17 and 18 highlights:
Sweden
Sweden Challenges Spain’s Proposed Nicotine Pouch Ban at EU Level
Sweden plans a legal fight against Spain’s proposed nicotine pouch ban, citing the need to protect Swedish snus users and prevent EU-wide restrictions.
UK
UK Government Pledges Consultation on Vape Flavours After Petition Success
The government vows to consult further on vape flavour restrictions, acknowledging their importance for adult smokers while aiming to protect youth from vaping.
Poland
Polish Vape Industry Appeals to PM Over Excessive Inspections
Industry representatives call for an end to excessive enforcement and demand dialogue with the government to ensure fair treatment and legal compliance.
Canada
Conservatives Push to End Pharmacy-Only Rule for Nicotine Pouches
A proposed policy shift would allow nicotine pouches to be sold at convenience stores, aiming to provide more accessible smoking-cessation options for adults.
Belgium
NNPA Criticises French Nicotine Pouch Ban Proposal for Undermining Public Health
The NNPA warns that the proposed ban would harm public health, violate EU law, and eliminate a crucial lower-risk alternative for French smokers.
Spain
Barcelona’s Beach Vaping Ban Overturned, But New National Restrictions Loom
A court overturned Barcelona’s beach vaping ban, but Spain’s government is pushing for severe restrictions on vapes, nicotine pouches, and flavours, risking harm reduction progress.
Greece
Greece Mulls Ban on Flavoured E-Cigarettes to Curb Youth Access
A proposed law could ban all e-cigarette flavours, except natural tobacco and mint, aiming to reduce underage consumption, though concerns about black market growth remain.
USA
US Tariffs on Chinese Vapes Raise Questions – Who Pays the Price?
With 180% duties looming, legal importers face steep costs while the grey market may continue unchecked, leaving enforcement – and global industry impact – in question.
USA
US Supreme Court Upholds FDA’s Authority on Flavoured E-Cigarettes
The Court confirms the FDA’s right to review and reject e-cigarette market applications, particularly those appealing to minors, reinforcing stricter scrutiny.
Philippines
Philippines Reopens Online Vape Sales with Strict Age Verification Rules
All digital platforms must now enforce registration and ID checks to block minors from accessing e-cigarettes and new tobacco products.