Growing concern is emerging in Bangladesh as anti-tobacco organisations warn against proposed changes to national legislation that would remove key restrictions on e-cigarettes. The planned amendments include lifting the ban on these products and allowing the display of tobacco at points of sale, raising fears about increased visibility and access. Health advocates argue that such measures could weaken existing tobacco control efforts and contribute to higher rates of nicotine use, particularly among young people. Critics also stress that emerging nicotine products may act as a gateway to addiction, warning that loosening regulations could open the door to stronger industry influence. The debate highlights broader tensions between regulatory changes and public health priorities in a country already facing a significant burden from tobacco-related harm.

Brazil’s tobacco exports saw a decline in the first two months of 2026, reflecting shifting demand and market conditions in key international destinations. Despite this drop in volume, overall export levels remain above the long-term average, indicating continued resilience in the sector. The country remains one of the world’s leading tobacco exporters, with the majority of production destined for foreign markets. Recent fluctuations are linked in part to changes in demand from major buyers, as well as broader trade dynamics affecting agricultural commodities. While short-term performance has softened, the data suggests that Brazil’s tobacco industry continues to maintain a strong position globally. The trend highlights how export performance can vary in the short term while still remaining stable over a longer horizon.

The GFN26 team has announced that the Global Forum on Nicotine’s online conference programme is now live. A keynote session will take place on Thursday, 4 June 2026 at 09:30 in the main auditorium, where Dr Garrett McGovern, Professor Jean-François Etter and Dr Arielle Selya will discuss the impact of prohibition on health and ethics. Registration is now open, with further details available on the official website.

Sweden has reached a significant public health milestone, with daily smoking rates falling to just 3.7 percent—well below the threshold commonly used to define a “smoke-free” society. This places the country at the forefront of global efforts to reduce smoking prevalence, far ahead of most EU member states. The achievement is often linked to long-term trends showing a steady decline in cigarette use alongside the availability of alternative nicotine products. Sweden has consistently recorded some of the lowest smoking rates in Europe, reinforcing its position as a leading case study in tobacco control. The milestone is now fuelling wider debate about which policies and behavioural shifts have driven this progress, and whether similar approaches could be replicated in other countries.

Growing concern is being raised about a new generation of young people developing nicotine dependence through emerging products such as e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches. Critics argue that these products, often marketed as safer alternatives, may still contribute to addiction among adolescents and young adults. The discussion highlights how early exposure to nicotine increases the risk of long-term dependence, particularly given the vulnerability of the developing brain. At the same time, rising use of newer nicotine formats among youth is fuelling debate over whether current public health strategies are adequately addressing changing patterns of consumption. The issue reflects broader concerns that progress in reducing smoking rates could be offset by the growth of alternative nicotine products.