Read articles from Asia

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.

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.