Vape Laws and Regulations Weekly Report

Key Highlights:

The State Tobacco Monopoly Administration issued revised guidelines for the technical review of e-cigarette products.
Brazil's Senate postponed the vote on the e-cigarette bill due to disagreements among senators.
The Philippines' Internal Revenue Bureau chief led a raid, signaling that such inspections may become regular.
Malaysia's Health Minister announced that new tobacco and e-cigarette regulations will take effect in October.
Thai military seized an illegal warehouse containing tens of thousands of KS disposable e-cigarettes.
Kenya is proposing strict regulations on e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches, with public comments open until August 26.

Colombia's Congress is proposing an increased tax on e-cigarettes to curb teenage usage.

China's State Tobacco Monopoly Administration Issues Revised Guidelines

On August 20, the State Tobacco Monopoly Administration released new guidelines for the technical review of e-cigarette products. These revisions aim to further regulate the technical review process, enhancing oversight to ensure the legality and safety of e-cigarette products in the market. The guidelines cover the scope of application, application requirements, and review processes.

North Ayrshire Police Seize Illegal Tobacco and E-Cigarettes Worth Thousands

In a coordinated effort, North Ayrshire police seized illegal nicotine products valued at £24,500, including cigarettes, tobacco pouches, and counterfeit e-cigarettes. The raid is part of ongoing efforts to crack down on the sale of illegal tobacco products.

Brazil's E-Cigarette Bill Vote Delayed Again

The Brazilian Senate’s Economic Affairs Committee (CAE) has once again delayed voting on the e-cigarette bill due to a lack of consensus among senators. The new voting date is set for September 3. The bill, which faces strong opposition from the Ministry of Health and health organizations, is a contentious issue. Proponents argue that regulating e-cigarettes could generate BRL 2.2 billion (USD 406 million) in annual tax revenue, while opponents worry about the potential burden on the national healthcare system.

Philippine Internal Revenue Bureau Chief Leads Raid

During the 2024 Philippine Vape Expo, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) seized 5,385 illegal e-cigarettes, estimated to involve over PHP 7 million (USD 123,716) in unpaid taxes. The raid was personally led by BIR Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui, who emphasized the bureau’s commitment to combating tax evasion, even during holidays or public events.

Malaysia to Enforce New Tobacco and E-Cigarette Regulations in October

Malaysia’s Health Minister, Dzulkefly Ahmad, announced that the "2024 Public Health Smoking Products Control Act" is expected to come into effect in October. This law will prohibit the sale and provision of any smoking-related products and services to minors.

Thai Military Seizes Illegal Warehouse Containing Tens of Thousands of KS Disposable E-Cigarettes

The Thai Army’s 11th Military District, in cooperation with relevant agencies, seized tens of thousands of illegally stored KS brand disposable e-cigarettes in Pathum Thani Province. The raid was based on previous investigation results.

Kenya Proposes Strict Regulations on E-Cigarettes and Nicotine Pouches

Kenya’s Parliament has introduced a bill to impose strict regulations and controls on e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches. The bill proposes granting the Health Minister broad powers to approve or ban products, and it mandates clear labeling, nicotine concentration limits, and container capacity requirements. It also plans to ban online sales and advertising. The Senate is accepting public comments on the bill until August 26.

Colombian Congress Proposes E-Cigarette Tax Increase

The Colombian Congress has proposed a bill to increase taxes on tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, as a response to the rising rate of e-cigarette use among teenagers. The bill aims to reduce health risks associated with smoking by increasing taxation and regulation. The draft has gained broad support.