Read articles from Asia

April 02, 2026 by thedailystar.net

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.

April 01, 2026 by asianews.network

The government plans to amend the anti-tobacco ordinance by lifting the ban on e-cigarettes, sparking concerns about public health and youth. The decision follows a recommendation from a special committee reviewing ordinances. Anti-tobacco advocates warn that e-cigarettes are harmful, with 30 countries having banned them. Health experts and campaigners stress the importance of protecting youths and urge the government to reconsider the move. The amendments will also eliminate restrictions on displaying tobacco products at sales points. The ordinance aims to control tobacco use and includes penalties for violation. Public health advocates emphasize the need to maintain restrictions on e-cigarettes and tobacco products to safeguard the population.

April 01, 2026 by filtermag.org

Singapore has implemented stringent laws against vaping, leading with severe penalties including long prison sentences and caning. The new Tobacco and Vaporisers Control Act broadens the ban on vapes, penalizing possession, sale, and smuggling. The legislation includes harsh punishments for devices containing specified substances. Penalties for personal possession and selling vapes have significantly increased. Advocates fear a spread of prohibition policies in the region. Despite evidence supporting vaping as a smoking cessation tool, Singapore maintains strict regulations. Critics argue that such measures are totalitarian and disregard scientific research, potentially impacting public health negatively.

March 27, 2026 by tobaccoreporter.com

Japan will implement the first phase of tax hikes on tobacco and corporate income from April 1 to raise funds for defense spending. The tax increases will continue in October and January 2027, aiming to generate ¥1.3 trillion ($8.2 billion) by that year. Philip Morris Japan and Japan Tobacco plan to raise prices on tobacco products. The government anticipates tobacco tax revenue to rise annually, reaching ¥212 billion ($1.3 billion) as further levies are enforced. This initiative supports Japan's defense budget, exceeding the 2% GDP target with over ¥9 trillion ($56.7 billion) allocated for fiscal 2026.

March 26, 2026 by pattayamail.com

Thailand is moving to tighten control over nicotine pouches as authorities respond to growing concerns about their availability and marketing. The government is increasing enforcement measures, particularly targeting sales channels such as social media, tourist areas, and retail outlets. Nicotine pouches are being treated under existing tobacco laws, meaning strict restrictions apply to their advertising, promotion, and display at points of sale. Officials have emphasized that even legally imported and taxed products must comply with these rules, and violations can lead to penalties. The move reflects a broader effort to limit youth access and reduce the visibility of emerging nicotine products in the market. At the same time, the situation highlights ongoing regulatory ambiguity, as these products remain available despite increasingly strict enforcement.

March 26, 2026 by chosun.com

Growing attention is being paid to how taxation of nicotine products can shape both consumer behaviour and public health outcomes. Governments are increasingly using fiscal policy not only to raise revenue but also to discourage the use of higher-risk products such as combustible cigarettes. At the same time, the rise of alternatives like e-cigarettes and heated tobacco is complicating traditional tax frameworks. Policymakers face the challenge of aligning taxation with relative risk in order to support harm reduction while maintaining regulatory consistency. The debate highlights broader tensions between economic priorities and the goal of reducing smoking-related harm.

March 18, 2026 by clearingtheair.eu

A study by Fraunhofer Institute reveals that almost half of vapes in Europe stem from irregular sources, amounting to a €6.6 billion market. The research, tracking supply chains and customs data, unveils links to illegal transactions. China dominates as the main supplier, particularly from Shenzhen, with 90% of products coming from there. Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium serve as key distribution centers. Enforcement faces challenges due to increasing parcel volumes. These irregular trades cause tax losses and pressure legitimate retailers, with bans likely to boost illicit market growth. Recommendations include digital tracking systems and enhanced cooperation to combat the issue.

March 17, 2026 by rappler.com

Vape products confiscated by the Department of Trade and Industry in the Philippines are destroyed. The Department of Health urges a total ban on vaping to protect youth health. Health experts propose stricter regulations on e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. Cases of vaping-related lung injuries and rising youth usage are concerning. Experts highlight the deceptive marketing tactics targeting children. Regulations are seen as inadequate, with sellers evading restrictions. Former health officials support a total vape ban to prevent the Philippines from being a dumping ground for rejected products. The Senate is considering increasing the age restriction for these products.

March 17, 2026 by bworldonline.com

The Department of Health urges a complete ban on e-cigarettes and vaping to address regulatory loopholes. Current restrictions are ineffective in preventing youth access. A unified tax and age limit of 25 are proposed as interim measures. In ASEAN, eight countries have already banned vape products. A suggestion is for the regulation of vapes and heated tobacco to return to the Department of Health and the FDA due to health concerns. The Department of Trade and Industry, currently regulating these products, has seized HTPs worth P519 million. Age restrictions may increase to 21.

March 16, 2026 by brusselssignal.eu

Almost half of Europe's e-cigarette market is supplied by China through irregular sources. The illicit market is projected to reach €10.8 billion by 2030, highlighting gaps in EU customs and consumer protection. A study finds China's strong control over products domestically contrasts with lack of control on exports to Europe. Legal shipments from China overwhelm customs, enabling untaxed and unregulated products. The shadow market poses health risks and tax evasion, with €119 million evaded in Germany alone. The study calls for uniform EU product definitions, digital traceability, and cooperation with China to stabilize the market, warning against blanket bans. Tightening regulations without addressing supply chain issues may worsen the situation.