The FDA is considering approving Phillip Morris International's Zyn pouches as a less harmful alternative for smokers. FDA experts are inclined towards approval, though concerns about underage use and marketing efficacy remain. Zyn, with various flavors, is a fast-growing product in the tobacco industry. Phillip Morris aims to promote Zyn as reducing risks associated with smoking-related diseases. Evidence supports Zyn's potential health benefits, but long-term studies and impact on smokers switching are lacking. FDA must also assess potential harm to young people despite low teenage use of nicotine pouches.

Although smoking rates have dropped to their lowest levels since their peak in the 1960s and 1970s, worries are rising about a possible resurgence as tobacco companies target younger people via social media. Data from the Australian National University show that 24,000 Australians die each year from smoking-related causes, and experts caution that the country now faces the danger of complacency.

Even though new data show that alternatives such as vaping are helping thousands of Canadians stop smoking, the Liberal government continues to maintain strict restrictions on these nicotine replacement products. In 2024, around 300,000 Canadians successfully quit smoking, yet federal rules on many nicotine replacement options remain unchanged.

The AMA NSW submitted strategies to reduce nicotine consumption, focusing on tackling illegal tobacco trade, tightening tobacco regulations, enhancing educational campaigns, and assisting individuals to quit. The submission emphasizes the ineffectiveness of reducing tobacco excise in combating illegal trade, calling for evidence-based solutions. Measures include limiting tobacco shopfronts, banning specific nicotine products, and improving youth education on vaping risks. The AMA stresses the importance of prevention through educating minors and vulnerable groups. Initiatives aim to inform individuals about the implications of nicotine use and discourage smoking, reflecting a comprehensive approach to addressing smoking rates and illegal trade concerns.

British American Tobacco shocked investors two years ago with a £27bn writedown of its US cigarette brands, causing its shares to fall amid declining cigarette sales and political pressure on vaping. Contrary to expectations, the company’s shares have since risen nearly 90%, lifting its market value to £92bn and making it the UK’s sixth most valuable company. This performance has outpaced even Nvidia over the past year, while rival Imperial Brands has also grown to a £24bn market capitalisation.