Read articles from Asia

April 24, 2026 by planetofthevapes.co.uk

Concerns over public health policies are intensifying as critics question the direction of nicotine regulation. A controversial report has been accused of misrepresenting scientific evidence on nicotine and its effects. Experts argue that key claims—such as equating vaping with smoking risks—are unsupported or misleading. The debate highlights tensions between regulatory approaches and harm reduction strategies, particularly in Europe. At its core lies a broader question of whether current policies are driven by evidence or ideology.

April 24, 2026 by nber.org

Restrictions on flavoured e-cigarettes are reshaping how consumers engage with nicotine products. Data analysed by the National Bureau of Economic Research, with a focus on China, illustrates how limits on non-tobacco flavours influence user behaviour and product choices. The findings suggest that such policies can significantly alter consumption patterns, often producing unintended effects. In some cases, reducing access to flavored alternatives may lead users back to traditional cigarettes. These insights contribute to the ongoing global debate on regulation and harm reduction strategies.

April 17, 2026 by indiatimes.com

India's drug advisory body suggests limiting available nicotine replacement therapies, raising concerns about hindering smokers' efforts to quit. This move complicates access to quitting aids, potentially impacting public health initiatives, as tobacco products remain widely accessible. The recommendation aims to restrict most over-the-counter nicotine products, with exemptions only for specific items. While these aids can help manage addiction symptoms, experts stress the importance of medical supervision due to nicotine's health risks. Concerns persist about hindrances to quitting attempts, contrasting with the widespread availability of tobacco products. The debate continues on regulating nicotine products for cessation aid support.

April 16, 2026 by bbc.co.uk

Hon Lik, a Chinese pharmacist and smoker, began looking for an alternative to cigarettes after developing health problems in 2003. He experimented with different ideas and eventually created a prototype for an electronic cigarette. The device was designed to deliver nicotine without burning tobacco, offering a different way to smoke. It was launched on the market in 2004 and quickly became commercially successful in China. The story follows how he developed the idea and managed to bring the product into production.

April 13, 2026 by globenewswire.com

A growing debate is unfolding in Bangladesh over proposals to ban safer nicotine products such as vapes and nicotine pouches. Regional advocacy groups argue that prohibition-based policies risk repeating past failures seen in traditional tobacco control. Instead of outright bans, there are increasing calls for proportionate regulation that allows adult smokers access to lower-risk alternatives. Supporters of this approach warn that strict prohibitions could drive consumers toward cigarettes or unregulated markets. The discussion reflects a broader global tension between restrictive policies and harm reduction strategies in nicotine regulation.

April 09, 2026 by 2firsts.com

Seoul is set to introduce stricter regulations on vaping by extending smoking bans to liquid e-cigarettes in public spaces. Starting April 24, these products will be treated the same as conventional tobacco under revised legislation. This change closes a legal loophole that previously allowed some users to avoid penalties. Anyone caught using e-cigarettes in no-smoking areas may face fines of up to 100,000 won. The city is also launching inspections and public awareness campaigns to ensure compliance with the new rules.

April 09, 2026 by 2firsts.com

Seoul is set to introduce stricter regulations on vaping by extending smoking bans to liquid e-cigarettes in public spaces. Starting April 24, these products will be treated the same as conventional tobacco under revised legislation. This change closes a legal loophole that previously allowed some users to avoid penalties. Anyone caught using e-cigarettes in no-smoking areas may face fines of up to 100,000 won. The city is also launching inspections and public awareness campaigns to ensure compliance with the new rules.

April 07, 2026 by 2firsts.com

Azerbaijan has introduced one of the most comprehensive bans on vaping products, prohibiting the import, production, sale, and use of electronic cigarettes nationwide. The new legislation, which came into force on 1 April 2026, classifies nicotine-containing e-cigarettes as tobacco products and removes them entirely from the legal market. The restrictions extend to all components, including devices, cartridges and e-liquids, with authorities also introducing fines and product confiscation for violations. At the same time, heated tobacco products are explicitly excluded from the ban and will continue to be regulated separately. The move reflects a strict public health approach aimed at reducing nicotine use, but it also raises questions about enforcement, potential illicit markets, and the broader role of alternative products within tobacco control strategies.

April 07, 2026 by 2firsts.com

Azerbaijan has introduced one of the most comprehensive bans on vaping products, prohibiting the import, production, sale, and use of electronic cigarettes nationwide. The new legislation, which came into force on 1 April 2026, classifies nicotine-containing e-cigarettes as tobacco products and removes them entirely from the legal market. The restrictions extend to all components, including devices, cartridges and e-liquids, with authorities also introducing fines and product confiscation for violations. At the same time, heated tobacco products are explicitly excluded from the ban and will continue to be regulated separately. The move reflects a strict public health approach aimed at reducing nicotine use, but it also raises questions about enforcement, potential illicit markets, and the broader role of alternative products within tobacco control strategies.

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.