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October 08, 2025 by tobaccoreporter.com

The Malaysian Ministry of Health plans to raise excise duty on vape liquids tenfold, proposing MYR4 per mL, ahead of a complete ban on e-cigarettes. The Ministry seeks to align vape taxes with those on cigarettes to discourage vaping. Industry representatives push back, suggesting a maximum tax of 80 sen per milliliter to prevent increased illicit trade. The government aims to implement the ban gradually through education and enforcement, pending Cabinet approval.

October 07, 2025 by filtermag.org

Malaysia plans to ban vaping products by mid-2026, citing concerns about unregulated sales. Dr. Wan Puteh highlights risks of illegal markets and potential harm to smokers. Banning vapes may increase illicit trade and harm public health, as seen in neighboring countries. Advocates suggest legalizing and regulating to ensure consumer safety. The ban could impact over 30,000 workers and a billion-dollar industry. They urge the government to consider a balanced regulatory approach that supports harm reduction. The move aims to protect public health and prevent the proliferation of unsafe products in the market.

October 03, 2025 by thesun.my

Licensed premises selling electronic cigarettes or vape in Perak must close by January 1, confirmed by State Government Committee chairman Sandrea Ng. No new licences will be issued, and existing ones will be revoked once current stock is sold. This aligns with Perak's policy to ban e-cigarette sales after the deadline. Enforcement is under local authorities, with a grace period until January for traders to adjust. The ban is set for October 1, following a proposal by the Health Department, presented at a State Executive Council meeting on September 22. The government will ensure compliance and support affected businesses in transitioning to other operations.

October 03, 2025 by themalaysianreserve.com

Over 60 licensed vape shops in Perak must cease operations by January 1 next year, as no new licences will be issued. Businesses with licences valid beyond that date may stay open only to clear existing stock, after which their licences will be revoked. The policy is part of the state government’s ban on e-cigarette sales.

October 01, 2025 by channelnewsasia.com

In Kuala Lumpur, a vape shop faces closure due to Malaysia's planned vape ban by mid-2026, leading to uncertain industry regulations. Health experts advocate for controlled regulation over a complete ban, citing concerns of boosting an illicit market. Authorities are urged to enhance enforcement of existing tobacco product laws. While some warn of health risks, others propose a harm reduction approach. Public Health Ministry's comment is awaited amid industry uncertainties.

October 01, 2025 by qazinform.com

The World Health Organization supports Kazakhstan's ban on shisha smoking in public places due to health risks. Shisha smoke contains harmful substances and poses dangers to users and passive smokers. The misconception that shisha is safer than cigarettes is refuted by evidence showing its links to cancer and other diseases. WHO recommends upholding the ban to protect public health, especially with the popularity of shisha among the youth. Despite economic claims, tobacco-related diseases outweigh short-term gains. Media and civil society are crucial in raising awareness, and WHO provides scientific guidance on waterpipe smoking's health effects. Kazakhstan's tobacco control efforts align with WHO standards, emphasizing public health over commercial interests.

September 25, 2025 by asianews.network

The Finance Minister of Indonesia announced strict measures against illegal cigarette sales impacting state revenue, targeting smugglers and sellers. Random checks will target travelers, e-commerce platforms, and suppliers. Customs and excise authorities are monitoring tobacco products to prevent underpriced sales. Raids in several regions have seized millions of illegal cigarettes. With excise rates at 57%, efforts aim to address the issue of illegal cigarettes. Minimizing excise losses and deterring the illicit cigarette trade are top priorities for the government.

September 23, 2025 by thenationalnews.com

Almost 40% of university students in the UAE use vapes, the highest among Arab countries studied. Factors like availability, various flavors, and online promotion contribute to the popularity. While vaping is seen as less harmful than smoking tobacco, health risks remain. Doctors recommend stricter controls on access to these products. In the UAE, 23% of students had vaped in the past month, indicating a growing trend. Flavors attract many users, but doctors suggest vapes for smokers aiming to quit. Concerns arise over the high prevalence among young adults. UAE authorities are urged to adapt regulations as the nicotine market evolves rapidly.

September 16, 2025 by newsbytesapp.com

Tobacco is a major health issue in India, causing 1.35 million deaths annually. Treating tobacco-related diseases costs over ₹1.77 lakh crore each year. Only 7% of smokers quit without assistance. Healthcare experts recommend smoke-free nicotine alternatives to reduce harm, with studies showing they are significantly safer than cigarettes. Nicotine pouches, now available in 34 countries, including India, could help smokers switch from cigarettes. Public Health England states these alternatives are up to 95% less harmful than smoking. Dr. Soni from AIIMS-CAPFIMS suggests regulating these products to aid smokers in transitioning away from traditional cigarettes.

September 15, 2025 by scmp.com

Hong Kong passed a contentious tobacco control bill to decrease smoking rates. Concerns were raised about tourism and illicit cigarette trade impact. The bill includes measures like banning alternative smoking products in public by April 2026 and flavored cigarettes by 2027. Penalties for possessing illicit cigarettes have increased, and smoking is prohibited at transport boarding points and certain public areas. E-cigarettes' use in public will be banned, with fines for possessing e-liquids. The bill's effects on smokers are analyzed in comparison to neighboring regions.