Read articles from Asia

May 26, 2025 by scmp.com

A university study in Hong Kong found that almost 70% of under 25-year-olds have tried e-cigarettes, with 60% citing peer pressure. Another study showed over a third of regular smokers support plain cigarette packaging, planned by 2027. The government proposed 10 tobacco control measures in June last year, including banning flavoured cigarettes and alternative smoking products. Associate Professor Eva Ho Ka-yan expressed concerns about teenagers being misled by online promotions, making them think e-cigarettes are harmless. The accessibility of such products in clubs, bars, and online tutorials was highlighted. A research program engaged 2,000 individuals and assisted 2,500 in smoking cessation inquiries.

May 19, 2025 by theguardian.com

China plans to flood the UK with affordable vapes due to the US-China trade tensions. The US imposed a 60% tariff on Chinese vapes, prompting Chinese manufacturers to target the UK market. With the UK banning disposable vapes, concerns arise about the influx of Chinese alternatives. Industry experts warn of challenges in regulating these new products and ensuring they are not mistaken for disposables. Manufacturers are adapting by introducing rechargeable vape kits, but refill availability remains a concern. Amid environmental worries, efforts are needed to facilitate vape recycling. The Chinese vaping industry is adapting swiftly to navigate these challenges and explore alternative markets to survive.

May 14, 2025 by khmertimeskh.com

Prime Minister Hun Manet reaffirmed that Cambodia does not welcome investment in e-cigarettes. The statement was made yesterday during a meeting with Barros Figueira Miguel, President of the Association of Tobacco Industry of Cambodia (ATIC), at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh. During the meeting, Miguel briefed the premier on ATIC’s activities, including its contribution to Cambodia’s socio-economic development by creating over 4,500 local jobs and providing clean water equipment, computers, and so on.

May 14, 2025 by thestar.com.my

Cambodian PM Hun Manet stated that e-cigarette production won't be allowed in Cambodia due to health concerns, reaffirming the ban on e-cigarettes and shisha since 2014. The government focuses on preventing illegal tobacco product imports, raising awareness of smoking's health risks. The Ministry of Health warns about e-cigarettes' nicotine content, leading to severe health issues like lung disease and cancer. The PM's decision comes after reports of illegal e-cigarette sales despite the existing ban. Hun Manet's stance aims to protect the public from harmful effects associated with smoking and vaping.

May 12, 2025 by vietnamplus.vn

Thailand's Education Ministry has prohibited e-cigarette use in schools and offices to combat youth vaping. Concerned about rising popularity due to accessibility and targeted ads, the ministry aims to protect children's health. Measures like awareness campaigns, installing no-vaping signs, and stricter supervision are implemented nationwide.

May 12, 2025 by nst.com.my

The lack of a regulatory body in Malaysia to oversee vape product quality has contributed to their misuse, including drug consumption. Ridhwan Rosli of the Malaysian Vape Chamber of Commerce highlighted that without proper oversight, there’s no way to ensure product safety, leading to cases where vapes are used for illicit drug use.

May 09, 2025 by kurdistan24.net

Iraq’s Ministry of Health plans to implement a nationwide ban on the import, sale, and use of e-cigarettes due to rising health concerns and increased use among youth. Dr. Wasim Kilani announced that a new law, the "Law for Protection from the Harmful Effects of Tobacco," will soon be passed, including penalties and enforcement measures. He noted that one in five Iraqis smokes and that smoking is among the top ten causes of death in the country.

May 08, 2025 by theedgemalaysia.com

The prevalence of e-cigarette and HTP use is now close to smoking incidence in Malaysia, according to a regional study conducted by Singapore-based consumer insights firm Milieu Insight.

April 30, 2025 by qalampir.uz

The Senate of the Oliy Majlis in Uzbekistan approved a law banning electronic cigarettes to combat the rising illegal circulation of such products. The law aims to promote a healthy lifestyle, especially among youth, by reinforcing regulations on tobacco and nicotine-related items. It includes penalties for illegal activities and exempts individuals who report violations. Similar laws have been enacted in neighboring countries like Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. The legislation aligns with efforts to protect public health, the national gene pool, and the environment from harmful tobacco products. The law was proposed in January 2024 and passed in April.

April 28, 2025 by thestar.com.my

British American Tobacco (M) Bhd will discontinue its VUSE e-cigarette range in Malaysia by the third quarter of 2025 to comply with new regulations under Act 852, effective from Oct 1, 2025. The company anticipates minimal financial impact for the year ending Dec 31, 2025. BAT will assess its VUSE products commercially and prioritize combustible value growth while managing operational risks.