Bangladesh High Court Questions Legality of BEZA’s Approval for Philip Morris Nicotine Pouch Factory

Nov.20.2025

The High Court in Bangladesh has asked government bodies to explain why the approval granted to Philip Morris to establish a nicotine pouch factory should not be deemed illegal. Petitioners argue the decision contradicts existing policies and a 2016 Appellate Division ruling that restricts new tobacco-related enterprises. Authorities have ten days to respond.

Key Points

High Court seeks justification for BEZA’s approval of a Philip Morris nicotine pouch plant.
Approval issued on 27 April for domestic sales in Bangladesh.
Petitioners cite conflict with policy and a 2016 Appellate Division ruling.
Prior directives barred new tobacco-related company approvals.
Ministries and Philip Morris must respond within ten days.

2Firsts, November 20, 2025 — According to the report, the Bangladesh High Court has issued a rule seeking justification for the approval allowing Philip Morris to set up a nicotine pouch manufacturing plant in Sonargaon, Narayanganj.

The order followed a public interest writ filed by Sayera Nazabi Sayem, Advocate Sajidul Islam, and Mahir Chowdhury, represented in court by Barrister Asif Bin Anwar. The Ministry of Commerce, BEZA, the Ministry of Health, and Philip Morris were directed to respond within ten days.

Petitioners stated that BEZA approved the project on 27 April despite government policy and earlier Appellate Division directives restricting the establishment of new tobacco or tobacco-product companies. The approval notes the products would be sold domestically. They argued the decision has already raised concern among social and cultural organisations over potential health and environmental risks.

The writ referenced a 1 March 2016 Appellate Division judgment that issued six directives aimed at reducing tobacco use nationwide, including prohibiting new approvals for tobacco-related companies and encouraging existing firms to shift to other industries. Allowing a new nicotine product facility, petitioners said, contradicts these directives and the state’s constitutional obligation to protect public health.

The case has renewed scrutiny of regulatory compliance within the tobacco sector. Further proceedings will follow after respondents submit their explanations.

References:

[1] HC questions BEZA's nod for Philip Morris nicotine pouch factory amid tobacco restrictions

Also Read:

[1] Bangladesh Approves Philip Morris Factory for Nicotine Pouches, Sparks Controversy: Regulator Says It’s “Completely Legal”

[2] Bangladesh Tobacco Control Group Urges Reversal of Philip Morris Nicotine Pouch Factory Approval

[3] Bangladesh Supreme Court Rejects Lease Appeal, British American Tobacco to Close Dhaka Factory

We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.

Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn

Notice

1. This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.

2. The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

3. This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.

4. Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.

Copyright

This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.

For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com

AI Assistance Disclaimer

This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.

We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com

Global Tobacco Companies’ Latest Earnings Review: Nicotine Pouch Business Shows Broad Strength, Emerging as a Key Growth Driver

Multiple global tobacco and next-generation nicotine companies reported solid Q3 performance, with the nicotine-pouch category showing broad-based strength across seven firms. Growth was reflected in higher shipment volumes, expanded market coverage, and new product launches. Several companies also reported rising revenue contributions from pouches and continued investment in this fast-growing segment, underscoring its position as a key driver of future growth.

Nov.14

Jordan Cuts Taxes on Heated Tobacco and E-cigarettes

Jordan has amended its 2025 Special Tax Law, introducing a package of tax reductions on heated tobacco products and electronic cigarettes. Published in the Official Gazette, the changes take effect Monday morning and include a 50% cut in taxes on heated tobacco devices, as well as significant reductions on e-cigarette hardware and liquids. The move is expected to have an immediate impact on retail prices.

Dec.22 by 2FIRSTS.ai

China Announces Crackdown on Illegal Nicotine Pouch Manufacturing Involving Counterfeit VELO, ZYN, and PABLO Products

The case is valued at approximately 400,000 yuan, and two suspects have been taken into custody.Video footage released by authorities shows that the counterfeit products involved well-known market brands such as VELO, ZYN, and PABLO.

Dec.01

Nicotine Pouch Brand VELO and McLaren Unveil Special Livery for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

According to PRNewswire, VELO and the McLaren Formula 1 Team have unveiled a special livery for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, co-created by nine superfans from around the world. The design forms the highlight of the “Live Your Fandom” campaign, reflecting memorable fan stories and celebrating the global McLaren community.