FLER at APE

A vape-related case reported by The Straits Times illustrates the typical operating methods of Singapore’s underground vape trade, including Telegram-based “online shops,” centrally coordinated scheduling, and small-volume, fragmented deliveries. The case highlights the segmented and concealed nature of the country’s black-market vape network. Drawing on the report, 2Firsts uses this case as a sample to map out the structure and operational patterns of Singapore’s underground vape chain.

The Welsh Parliament (Senedd) has approved new legislation banning tobacco sales to anyone born on or after January 1, 2009. The law, passed on December 9, 2025, also imposes stricter controls on how vapes and nicotine products are advertised and sold. Designed by the UK Government but voted on separately in Wales, the bill passed with 36 votes in favor, two abstentions, and nine against. It grants stronger enforcement powers to Trading Standards to combat illegal tobacco and vape sales.

Spain’s Socialist Party (PSOE) has submitted a legal amendment to the Congress proposing a gradual reduction of the excise duty on nicotine pouches. The current rate of €0.10 per gram would be phased in progressively until 2030. The plan sets the rate at €0.02/g in 2026, rising by €0.02 annually until reaching €0.10/g in 2030. PSOE says this measure would mitigate price shocks and make the tax system more progressive.

The State Tobacco Monopoly Administration (STMA) announced a public hearing will be held on Nov. 11 at 9 a.m. in Bao’an District, Shenzhen, regarding Shenzhen Biaogan Zhizao Technology Co., Ltd. accused of leasing its tobacco retail license.

According to Bloomberg, Dubai-based hookah brand owner Advanced Inhalation Rituals (AIR) plans to go public on Nasdaq in the first half of 2026 through a merger with a Cantor Fitzgerald-backed SPAC. The deal values the combined company at USD 1.75 billion under the ticker “AIIR.”

2Firsts observed that Japan Tobacco’s heated tobacco brand Ploom has set up an independent retail counter at Dubai International Airport’s duty-free zone, showcasing its new Ploom AURA device. The counter features an interactive scent-release system that allows consumers to experience flavors through aroma rather than inhalation, offering a new approach to product display in smoke-free environments.