Billowing smoke from regulations clouding tobacco firms’ outlook
November 20, 2025 by theedgemalaysia.com
Billowing smoke from regulations clouding tobacco firms’ outlook
The Malaysian tobacco and e-cigarette industry faces increasing regulations and taxes, with bans on vape products in several states, and discussions about a nationwide vape ban. Tobacco companies are adjusting to the changes, with British American Tobacco withdrawing a vaping product. The Ministry of Health proposed a vape liquid tax increase, while Japan Tobacco is focusing on heated tobacco products as part of a global shift towards reduced-risk products. Malaysia's illicit cigarette trade is declining, but potential revenue from properly taxing vape products remains untapped. Japan Tobacco plans significant investments in reducing risky products, like heated tobacco sticks, expecting a shift towards smoke-free alternatives.
17.90% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 4.9 million current smokers in Malaysia 33.60% of men are current smokers but only 0.50% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR
