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December 17, 2025 by filtermag.org

Vietnam recently amended its Investment Law to extend the ban on nicotine vapes and heated tobacco products. The move strengthens the existing prohibition, including personal use. The World Health Organization supported Vietnam's decision, claiming benefits such as reduced youth usage. However, experts question the evidence behind the ban's alleged positive effects. With a high smoking rate, Vietnam’s tobacco regulations face challenges. Critics highlight conflicts of interest, as the state-owned tobacco company dominates the market. The ban may fuel an illicit market, impacting neighboring countries like Laos and Thailand. Overall, the policy is seen as prioritizing economic interests over harm reduction and evidence-based policymaking.

December 16, 2025 by apa.az

The proposed amendment to the Law "On Tobacco and Tobacco Products" in Azerbaijan classifies nicotine-containing electronic cigarettes as tobacco products, banning their import, export, production, storage, and sale. The draft excludes heated tobacco products from this category. The changes aim to provide clearer classification and regulation, aligning with amendments in the Tax Code and advertising laws to remove excise duties on single-use electronic cigarettes and e-liquids and update advertising restrictions accordingly.

December 16, 2025 by news.az

Azerbaijan plans to ban electronic cigarettes and their components, reclassifying them as tobacco products under new amendments. The ban covers import, export, production, and sale, aiming to tighten regulations and clarify definitions for better control. Related changes to tax laws and advertising regulations are also proposed, including restricting advertising of non-nicotine e-cigarettes. The move follows discussions in parliamentary committees to align legislation with the updated classifications.

December 12, 2025 by thestatesman.com

Former Union Minister and BJP MP Anurag Singh Thakur filed a complaint to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, alleging that an AITMC MP used an electronic cigarette inside the Lok Sabha chamber. Thakur said the act was witnessed by several members and reported to the Chair during Question Hour. In his letter, he described the incident as a serious violation of parliamentary rules and relevant laws.

December 12, 2025 by vietnamnews.vn

The World Health Organisation praises Vietnam's National Assembly for banning e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products to protect public health. The decision, made a year ago and reinforced this week, aims to safeguard young people from the harmful effects of nicotine on brain development and long-term health risks. The WHO emphasizes that allowing any loopholes in the ban would undermine its effectiveness. Dr. Angela Pratt highlights the importance of upholding the ban to prioritize health over short-term economic gains. Restrictions on investment and commercial activities related to these products are crucial to enforcing the ban effectively.

December 12, 2025 by vnanet.vn

WHO Representative in Vietnam Dr Angela Pratt said, “WHO is delighted with the decision to include e-cigarettes and HTPs in the list of banned enterprises under the Investment Law, without exceptions. This is crucial for upholding the National Assembly’s ban on these products – Resolution 173.”

December 12, 2025 by vnanet.vn

WHO Representative in Vietnam Dr Angela Pratt said, “WHO is delighted with the decision to include e-cigarettes and HTPs in the list of banned enterprises under the Investment Law, without exceptions. This is crucial for upholding the National Assembly’s ban on these products – Resolution 173.”

December 09, 2025 by vietnamplus.vn

A 16-year-old Singaporean is the first etomidate abuser admitted to a Singaporean rehab center following its classification as a controlled drug. Singapore's Ministry of Home Affairs and Health Sciences Authority reported his admission for a two-month program after three etomidate-related offenses. The rehab includes psychology-based programs, family support, and religious counseling. Additionally, a 15-year-old Myanmar national had her visit pass revoked for possessing an etomidate e-vaporizer. This is the first foreigner case under Singapore's anti-vaping laws, where possessing etomidate can lead to deportation and a ban from re-entry.

December 03, 2025 by koreatimes.co.kr

A revised law now includes e-cigarettes in tobacco taxation to boost tax collection for financing fiscal policies. The National Assembly expanded the definition of tobacco to cover synthetic nicotine, aiming to generate an estimated 1 trillion won annually. The Ministry of Economy and Finance stated that the revised law encompasses all components of tobacco plants and nicotine. E-cigarettes will face tobacco taxes after a possible two-year grace period. The revision addresses a national tax shortfall and is vital for funding expansionary fiscal policies, as highlighted by the approved 2026 national budget increase to 727.9 trillion won.

December 02, 2025 by chinadaily.com.cn

China has struggled with high smoking rates despite efforts. In the past decade, the number of smokers decreased but remains at 300 million. Public opinion on smoking has shifted due to campaigns and regulations. China now aims to further reduce smoking rates to 20% by 2030. Challenges include enforcement in public spaces and among businesses. Stricter laws and increased tobacco taxes have shown progress, with 60 million fewer smokers in recent years. To meet future targets, continued public and administrative support is crucial. Failure to enforce regulations may hinder efforts to improve public health and reduce smoking rates in China.