China Starts Mandatory National Standards Process for Heated Cigarettes and Nicotine Pouches
April 15, 2026 by 2firsts.com
China Starts Mandatory National Standards Process for Heated Cigarettes and Nicotine Pouches
China has initiated the process of drafting national standards for heated cigarettes and nicotine pouches, enhancing regulatory frameworks. The standards are essential in the pathway for market access but do not signal an imminent launch. The 22-month development cycle aims to protect health and safety. Heated cigarettes and nicotine pouches face separate regulatory paths, with the latter's standards following recent clarifications. The move signifies regulatory progress rather than immediate commercialization. It outlines technical requirements for these products and underlines China's efforts to regulate emerging nicotine categories. Although pivotal, the standards do not guarantee market entry, requiring additional steps and institutional arrangements.
24.40% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 288.3 million current smokers in China 46.40% of men are current smokers but only 1.90% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR
