Stories

Join Joanna Junak on GFN News as she speaks with Kurt Yeo, co-founder of Vaping Saved My Life, about the key moments and conversations surrounding COP11. Kurt shares his impressions from the unofficial Good COP 2.0 meeting in Geneva and offers insights into the broader discussions on harm reduction and tobacco policy.

Ignacio Leiva is a journalist specializing in informatics and multimedia platforms and a leading advocate for vaping in Chile. In 2010 he led a communication campaign that helped prevent a vaping ban and has since focused on educating and strengthening the vaping community. He is the founder and current president of the Association of Vaporizer Consumers of Chile ASOVAPE and serves as secretary of ARDT Iberoamerica. Ignacio organized the first pro vaping public demonstration in Latin America and actively promotes tobacco harm reduction initiatives in Chile and internationally. He also played a key role in the legislative process that led to the enactment of Chile’s vaping law which came into force this year.

President Trump's efforts to reduce Chinese vape imports recorded a decrease from April to June, but a surge in July to October. Despite U.S. import declines since 2023, Chinese export data revealed a steady increase. Conflicting trade records show illicit vapes dominating the market, while efforts continue to curb their sale. Possible explanations include underreported imports and deceptive tactics by manufacturers. Investigations unveiled networks aiding illegal vape flow into the U.S. Officials seized significant amounts of illicit vapes, yet the total imported remains unaccounted for. Ongoing efforts to combat this issue involve increased enforcement actions and coordination between government agencies. The FDA and CBP play significant roles, with allocated funds for e-cigarette enforcement.

The Scottsdale, Arizona, city council has updated its smoking restrictions to include e-cigarettes and vape pens, banning their use in enclosed public spots (such as malls, theaters, bars, and restaurants), in city-owned areas (such as bus stops, playgrounds, pools, and stadiums), and anywhere within 50 feet of public schools. Violators could face fines of up to $300.

A 16-year-old Singaporean is the first etomidate abuser admitted to a Singaporean rehab center following its classification as a controlled drug. Singapore's Ministry of Home Affairs and Health Sciences Authority reported his admission for a two-month program after three etomidate-related offenses. The rehab includes psychology-based programs, family support, and religious counseling. Additionally, a 15-year-old Myanmar national had her visit pass revoked for possessing an etomidate e-vaporizer. This is the first foreigner case under Singapore's anti-vaping laws, where possessing etomidate can lead to deportation and a ban from re-entry.

Five European countries believe the UK's smoking ban for youngsters breaches international law, risking penalties. The ban, proposed by Sir Keir Starmer, might violate EU law for Northern Ireland under the Windsor Framework. The group warns of legal consequences, stressing the importance of compliance with the Single Market rules. Former Lord Chancellor Robert Buckland urges the UK government to address the conflict to avoid a constitutional crisis. Despite calls for closer EU ties post-Brexit, Starmer opposes joining the Customs Union. The UK affirms the Tobacco and Vapes Bill aligns with their obligations, aiming for a smoke-free generation.

Viet Nam's National Assembly made history by passing a ban on e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products to safeguard the health of young people. Since the ban, there has been a 70% decrease in emergency cases related to these products. The dangers of nicotine use, especially for teenagers, are highlighted, with severe health implications. The importance of a comprehensive ban without exceptions is stressed to prevent legal loopholes. International evidence supports this approach, with 42 countries banning e-cigarettes and 24 banning heated tobacco products. Maintaining the ban is crucial to protect Viet Nam's progress in public health. Lawmakers are urged to ensure all relevant legislation reflects this ban for the well-being of Vietnamese youth.

ZYN X-Low is the newest addition to the brand’s nicotine pouch range, catering to adult users exploring pouches for the first time. This product complements the existing ZYN lineup, offering retailers a diverse selection to meet customer preferences. With flavors like Spearmint and Black Cherry, ZYN X-Low provides a smoother experience with reduced tingle. Available at various retailers and through online platforms, this 1.5mg nicotine pouch aims to expand product options and promote a smoke-free future. Backed by a nationwide campaign, the launch emphasizes ZYN’s innovation and range of strength options for adult nicotine users.

Misleading claims about vaping, like those circulating in South Africa, are addressed by major health bodies. Vaping significantly reduces carcinogens and toxins compared to smoking, debunking myths about risks like Popcorn Lung and oil-containing liquids. Regulated vaping excludes harmful chemicals found in illicit products. Extensive evidence supports vaping as a less harmful alternative to smoking, promoting quitting. The public should be informed with accurate information to make informed decisions, emphasizing harm reduction and controlled youth access.

YouTube’s new AI enforcement wave looks less like a policy update and more like the World Health Organization’s crusade against nicotine. In this worrying GFN Interview, GrimmGreen shows how safer-nicotine content is now being flagged as “medical misinformation” under rules that echo the WHO’s narrative: nicotine equals harm—no nuance allowed. After sixteen years as one of the most trusted voices helping adult smokers escape combustible tobacco, GrimmGreen is once again fighting to keep his channel alive.