Stories

Juul Labs is undergoing a strategic reset in response to underage vaping concerns in the US, including settlements and regulatory challenges. They are focusing on the Juul2 platform with enhanced features and age verification checks to deter underage use. Despite criticism, Juul remains committed to harm reduction for adult smokers. The tobacco industry has historically faced hurdles in innovation due to regulatory and communication barriers, hindering harm reduction alternatives. This cycle of demonization has impeded progress in reducing harm from smoking. Restricting safer options while allowing conventional cigarettes to dominate perpetuates harm and limits consumer choice. The need for a shift towards harm reduction and policies supporting innovation is crucial in public health efforts.

In Kenya, there is high awareness of Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR) with 85% of respondents believing that promoting safer alternatives can help smokers quit traditional cigarettes. Additionally, 63% feel the government should conduct campaigns to encourage the switch to safer alternatives, recognizing the public health benefits.

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill in the UK aims to end tobacco sales to those born after 2009, with stricter regulations on nicotine products. The Bill faces criticism for misrepresenting international examples in debates. New Zealand's repeal of tobacco measures is linked to industry interference, not effectiveness issues. Australia's illicit tobacco market issues stem from weak enforcement, not regulation. Sweden's success in tobacco control is attributed to comprehensive policies, not just snus use. The UK Bill aims to regulate new nicotine products like pouches and address marketing to minors. Utilizing accurate international evidence is crucial for effective public health policy. Parliamentary debates impact global tobacco control approaches.

The European Commission is collecting feedback on a proposal to tax new nicotine products, causing concern in Sweden. The Swedish Snus Association opposes the tax hike, arguing it may hinder smoking reduction efforts. Over 13,000 European comments have been submitted, with many Swedes warning against increased prices for nicotine pouches. Users stress the importance of snus in reducing smoking rates and suggest taxing products based on risk level. Danish and French users agree, emphasizing the need for realistic alternatives and harm reduction. Concerns include potential black market growth and negative impact on national strategies to reduce smoking.

“Challenging Perceptions” — hear voices from around the world on how to communicate tobacco harm reduction effectively. From researchers to advocates, GFN 2025 brought powerful insights on evidence, empathy, and engagement.

Luxembourg is enhancing its public health policy with Bill 8333, aligning anti-smoking laws with EU regulations. The bill bans flavorings in heated tobacco products, enforces health warnings, and sets marketing restrictions. It regulates nicotine pouches, limiting nicotine content and banning additives. Reactions are mixed, with health organizations supporting the stricter measures while the Chamber of Commerce criticizes potential economic impacts. The Council of State approved the bill in July 2025, and it will take effect soon.

Philip Morris got permission to set up a nicotine pouch factory in Bangladesh's Narayanganj with a $5.8 million investment. The annual production target is 536.3 million units. Anti-tobacco groups oppose the move but authorities view the pouches as non-nicotine items. While e-cigarettes are banned, these pouches are not. Regulatory checks are ongoing, with Philip Morris awaiting environmental clearance.

UC San Francisco research shows that people who smoke both tobacco and cannabis are more likely to reduce cigarette consumption when prices increase. Cigarette price hikes have traditionally led to decreased smoking rates, but little was known about dual users. Cannabis users were found to be more sensitive to cigarette costs, with a 2x higher likelihood of cutting back compared to tobacco-only smokers. This study highlights the effectiveness of raising cigarette prices in reducing smoking, particularly among dual users. State pricing data aligns with lower smoking rates in areas with higher prices. Further research is needed to understand if dual users may substitute cannabis for tobacco as prices rise.

Brussels has released a revised compromise proposal for the EU's position on the WHO's FCTC, aiming for consensus among 27 nations. The softened document addresses contentious issues like tobacco product regulation, harm reduction, and advertising. It emphasizes evidence-based approaches and individual party policies, reflecting lobbying and FCTC debates. The EU now advocates for proportionate regulation of alternative nicotine products based on scientific evidence. The draft retains measures to reduce single-use plastics in tobacco products but shifts away from binding mandates. Despite dismissing harm reduction as an "industry narrative", the proposal shows a more moderate stance on vaping and nicotine pouches, allowing for national discretion.

Higher nicotine level pouches are crucial for tobacco harm reduction, tailoring doses to individual needs. A study in Sweden shows increased nicotine delivery and satisfaction with modern pouches. Findings support previous research on safer nicotine products aiding heavy smokers in quitting. FDA authorization for certain pouches is a step forward, yet limited to 6 mg nicotine content. Advocates emphasize the importance of higher doses for effective harm reduction. Some European regulations restricting dosage risk hindering smoking cessation efforts. Lax regulations in Sweden have significantly reduced smoking rates, contrasting with stricter approaches in other European countries. Learning from successful models is crucial in tackling smoking-related deaths globally.