Stories

A new bill in Spain aims to ban smoking and vaping at outdoor venues, sparking complaints from UK tourists who threaten to stop visiting. The proposed ban covers bars, restaurants, bus stops, stadiums, and beaches. Health Minister Monica Garcia emphasizes public health over private interests, advocating for cleaner air and longer lives. Some smokers express frustration, while others support the ban citing the nuisance of secondhand smoke. Concerns are raised about the impact on businesses and tourism, with some travelers already considering alternative destinations like Portugal.

Belgium will ban smoking and vaping on public terraces starting January 1, 2027. The measure aims to protect public health by preventing exposure to harmful smoke. The ban will also eliminate smoking rooms in various venues. Despite opposition, the government prioritizes health concerns over personal freedoms. This move aligns with a wider European trend of restricting smoking in public spaces. The country has seen a decline in cigarette use but a rise in e-cigarette usage. Businesses failing to comply with the new rules may face penalties.

Over 15,000 vapes and components were seized at land crossings in June and July. Johor authorities warn Malaysians against smuggling vapes into Singapore due to strict laws in both countries. Syndicates use social media to sell vapes and entice locals, especially youth, with large sums of money. The Johor government supports a nationwide vape ban to empower enforcement agencies. Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad plans to present a Cabinet Memorandum on the ban by year-end. Recent seizures include 7,400 vape products at Woodlands Checkpoint and 7,680 vape pods at the Second Link crossing. Authorities urge vigilance and highlight the serious consequences of breaking the law in Singapore.

Nicotine pouch ingestions are receiving attention, with a reported 763% increase in cases. Data shows cigarettes are the main source of poisonings among children. Nicotine pouches, accounting for 1.4% of cases, have seen a rise in incidents. These pouches, easier to swallow, lead to more hospitalizations and complications. Child-resistant packaging for e-liquids reduced liquid nicotine poisonings by half. Some pouch brands have safety features, but there are concerns about non-approved products. Innovative solutions like ClicCan aim to enhance pouch security. Despite rising numbers, most incidents involve very young children at home. Brands should prioritize safety, but personal vigilance is crucial for child protection.

International experts, including from the Philippines, are urging delegates to the WHO tobacco control meeting in November 2025 to back harm reduction. In a joint statement, they called on the WHO FCTC to fully integrate harm reduction into tobacco control, stressing that “combustion kills, not nicotine.” The appeal was made during a September 3 briefing in Makati City, organized by the Consumer Choice Center.

The FDA's strict regulatory process for tobacco products, particularly e-cigarettes, has resulted in the authorization of only 39 products out of millions of applications. The 2009 Tobacco Control Act has contributed to this issue by favoring certain companies and hindering harm reduction efforts. The FDA's delays and limitations have left smokers with limited safer options and stifled innovation, with only a few dominant manufacturers remaining. Congress has the opportunity to amend the act to promote public health and empower businesses. Reforming the FDA's tobacco regulatory system is crucial to achieving a smoke-free future in the United States.

New York State authorities led a crackdown named "Operation Vapers’ Dozen" targeting online vape sellers, resulting in 12 arrests and 38 charges for violating vape laws. The businesses faced charges for selling vapor products unlawfully. The state had banned flavored vapes and all online vape sales in 2020. Governor Kathy Hochul expressed holding these companies accountable for targeting youth. The state has been strict on vaping, with Democrats like Gov. Hochul and former Gov. Cuomo supporting anti-vaping policies. New York City Mayor Eric Adams also launched actions against vape distributors. Online vape sales are restricted in several U.S. states, including Arkansas, Hawaii, and Utah.

Nicotine, commonly misunderstood in the U.S., is not the main cause of cancer in cigarettes but is addictive. Smoke-free nicotine options like e-cigarettes and pouches, while not risk-free, reduce harmful chemical exposure compared to smoking. Correcting misconceptions is crucial for harm reduction, encouraging safer alternatives. Educating the public on nicotine's risks and benefits, especially in the context of brain development and pregnancy, is essential. Changing popular notions about nicotine is challenging but necessary for public health. Misunderstandings could impact harm reduction efforts and the usage of low-nicotine cigarettes. Research suggests comprehensive education can combat false beliefs.

A survey reveals that most under-18s obtain vapes through the black market, undermining restrictions. Despite bans, 74% feel stores allow underage purchases easily. Peer pressure drives 61% of youth to vape, and illegal sales soar due to cheaper prices and lack of age checks. Prohibition policies worldwide fail to curb demand, leading to a surge in illicit vape trade. Collaborative efforts are recommended for stricter age verification at point of sale and use, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle youth vaping effectively while avoiding the pitfalls of prohibition.

Changes to warning labels for tobacco, nicotine, and alcohol are under review by David Seymour's Ministry for Regulation. Public health groups expressed concerns, but Seymour indicated no plans to exclude these products. He mentioned the potential for altering label designs, citing an example of the color red used for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder warnings. Seymour acknowledged cost implications for businesses complying with label requirements. Health advocates stressed the importance of existing warning labels, especially for tobacco and nicotine products. The Ministry is gathering industry feedback through surveys. Concerns were raised about potentially reducing the effectiveness of warning labels on harmful products.