Nicotine Whispers: 2025 | Weeks 47 & 48
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 47 and 48 highlights:
Russia
Russian Lawmakers Propose Total E-Cigarette Ban
Russian deputies have submitted amendments seeking a nationwide ban on e-cigarettes and vape liquids to protect youth health. The proposal aligns with President Putin’s stance and includes stricter penalties for illegal sales and minor involvement.
Romania
JTI Plans New Factory in Romania, Set for Completion in 2027
JTI will build a new factory in Ștefăneștii de Jos to replace its Bucharest site, with completion targeted for 2027. The facility aims to expand capacity and modernize operations, supporting exports to over 70 countries.
UK
New Vape Tax Confirmed, Cigarette Prices Rise
The UK will introduce a £2.20 per 10ml excise duty on vaping liquids from October 2026, alongside increased tobacco duties. Cigarette, cigar, and rolling tobacco prices rise immediately to curb smoking and boost Treasury revenue.
Poland
Poland Proposes Disposable Vape Ban Amidst Debate
Poland plans to ban all disposable e-cigarettes to protect youth and reduce environmental risks. Experts urge preserving regulated access to smokeless nicotine products for adult harm reduction.
USA
FDA Schedules TPSAC Review of ZYN Applications
The FDA will review Swedish Match USA’s MRTP applications for 20 ZYN nicotine pouch products on January 22, 2026. The meeting will assess health risk reduction claims and public health impact before any modified risk authorization.
EU
Secret Push for Total Nicotine Prohibition at COP11 Exposed
Leaked documents reveal the EU Commission and Danish Presidency tried to impose a continent-wide ban on all novel nicotine products, bypassing member states. The plan risks over one million jobs and threatens the European vaping and harm-reduction industry.
Ireland
Ireland Approves Ban on Disposable Vapes & Nicotine Pouches
Ireland will ban the sale of single-use vapes and restrict nicotine products for minors, including advertising and display. The legislation aims to protect youth and regulate all current and emerging nicotine products.
Belgium
Belgium to Ban All Flavoured Vapes
Belgium plans to prohibit all vape flavours except tobacco to curb youth nicotine addiction. Retailers warn the ban may boost the illegal market,
Czech Republic
Czech Republic to Enforce Stricter E-Cigarette Rules
From December, the Czech Republic will ban e-cigarettes with sugar flavours or cannabinoids and enforce clearer nicotine labelling. Manufacturers have seven months to sell existing stock under the new regulations.
Austria
Austria Rejects WHO-Backed Cigarette Filter & Vape Ban
Austria’s Health Ministry firmly opposes proposed bans on filter cigarettes and e-cigarettes discussed at the WHO summit. The country confirms no restrictions will be imposed domestically despite international pressure.