Read articles from Asia

June 20, 2025 by tobaccoreporter.com

Nicotine pouches will be legally sold in the UAE from July 29 to aid smoking cessation. Dr. Sanam Mallick of Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi stated that these pouches could provide benefits similar to traditional NRTs, potentially increasing quitting rates by 50–70%. However, further research is required to confirm their effectiveness.

June 20, 2025 by indiatimes.com

The UAE approved the sale of tobacco-free nicotine pouches from July 29, offering smokers an alternative to cigarettes. Nicotine pouches contain nicotine but no tobacco, reducing lung damage risks. Dr. Mallick explained the pouches release nicotine without smoke, aiding in quitting smoking due to reduced cravings. However, they can be addictive, and long-term health effects are still being studied. Nicotine pouches work through oral mucosal absorption, unlike patches. While they may help some smokers quit, their effectiveness compared to traditional nicotine replacement therapies remains uncertain. The UAE regulates nicotine product sales, with warnings and age restrictions required. Despite health risks, the UAE is dedicated to supporting tobacco cessation through counseling and psychological aid.

June 19, 2025 by vapingpost.com

Hong Kong is considering stricter tobacco regulations, but a study shows peer pressure and stress as key drivers of nicotine use, highlighting the importance of harm reduction strategies. Current policies risk pushing users to more harmful options by banning safer alternatives. Global experiences, like the Maldives' vape ban leading to increased illicit tobacco activity, caution against overly restrictive measures. Advocates urge for inclusive policies at COP11, calling for innovation and consumer voices in tobacco control. Differentiated tax regimes, as seen in Japan and New Zealand, can reduce smoking rates. Hong Kong's tobacco policy should prioritize harm reduction to achieve effective public health outcomes instead of solely focusing on control and punishment.

June 16, 2025 by dawn.com

The text discusses the rise of vaping in Pakistan, with shops selling e-cigarettes targeted at adults but attracting young users with fruity flavors. Despite claims of being safer than cigarettes, health experts remain cautious due to unknown long-term effects. The tobacco industry is pivoting towards nicotine products, leading to concerns about addiction and access to underage users. Weak regulations in Pakistan allow for a thriving market, while global concerns about the environmental impact of disposable vapes are also highlighted. The narrative questions the true safety of vaping, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations and public awareness campaigns to prevent a potential health crisis.

June 12, 2025 by brecorder.com

The Punjab government led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has enforced a ban on e-cigarettes, vapes, and nicotine pouches to safeguard public health, citing concerns over youth usage. Health experts highlight the harmful effects of nicotine products on various body systems. The move follows similar bans in other countries due to safety concerns. Advocates stress the need for a national ban to protect youth from addiction and health risks. Punjab's proactive step underscores the urgency for broader regulations and enforcement nationwide to align with global tobacco control standards. The ban reflects a critical shift towards prioritizing public health over industry profits.

June 04, 2025 by gfn.tv

For 11 years Thailand has enforced a strict prohibition of vapes, with the resulting crackdown allegedly pushing vapers towards the black market. But advocates have created a strong community opposed to this ban, emphasising the right of people who smoke to quit using safer nicotine products. To examine the intricacies of Thailand's vape ban, we're joined today by Asa Saligupta, a leading Thai vaping advocate.

June 03, 2025 by manilastandard.net

Sweden is hailed as a leading example in tobacco harm reduction, with low smoking rates attributed to snus and nicotine pouches. JTI Sweden showcases its oral nicotine products and cutting-edge technologies. The company's Nordic Snus brand competes in the market, while JTI Philippines prioritizes harm reduction with products like Nordic Spirit. The country's success in reducing smoking rates is noted, with nicotine pouches seen as effective alternatives for quitting smoking. Sweden's low smoking prevalence and health outcomes compared to the EU average are highlighted. The Philippines, with high smoking rates, presents a promising market for reduced-risk products like nicotine pouches, showing a growing demand for alternatives.

June 03, 2025 by thestar.com.my

E-cigarette liquids in Malaysia are regulated under Act 852 by multiple government agencies, including MITI and the Health Ministry. A recent statement clarified that manufacturing licenses for these liquids fall under MITI, while the Health Ministry monitors contents and emissions to protect public health. The Customs Department controls raw material imports, and SIRIM tests safety standards. Regulations define e-cigarette liquid as a smoking substance including nicotine and glycols. Stringent oversight aims to uphold public health and safety in accordance with Madani values.

June 02, 2025 by galencentre.org

The Ministry of Health (MOH) confirmed a foreign vape company received a nicotine manufacturing license from MIDA. The Act 852 regulates e-cigarette import, manufacture, and distribution. The company, Ispire Technology Inc., was granted an interim manufacturing license under MITI and MIDA. MOH emphasized Act 852's strict regulation of e-cigarette liquids and smoking products. The MOH aims to ensure public health and safety in line with Madani values. Malaysia aims to be smoke-free by 2040. Ispire manufactures cannabis vaporizers but the MOH did not address this. The MOH did not disclose if Ispire had authorization to produce cannabis-related products.

May 26, 2025 by chosun.com

In 2023, synthetic cannabis disguised as e-cigarettes became widespread in Korea, according to the National Forensic Service’s 2024 Drug Evaluation White Paper. The NFS handled 120,703 drug analysis requests, a 5.2% decrease from the previous year. While urine and hair test requests dropped, requests for testing seized substances rose by 12%, indicating a shift in enforcement focus from users to drug distributors.he page, the text article must be completed manually