FLER at APE

Imperial Brands is calling on UK retailers to take part in the Government’s consultation on the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which will shape a new licensing framework for nicotine product sales across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The Department of Health and Social Care’s call for evidence closes on 3 December 2025. Imperial Brands stresses this is a key chance for retailers to influence policy, support fair competition, and help curb illicit sales.

A bill endorsing a licensing system for tobacco and nicotine products has been recommended in Russia's State Duma.

Philip Morris Japan has announced the launch of a new SENTIA Icy Red tobacco stick for its IQOS ILUMA i and IQOS ILUMA heated tobacco devices, featuring an intense menthol profile with red fruit notes. The new product will roll out in stages from December across physical IQOS outlets, online channels and tobacco retailers nationwide in Japan, priced at 530 yen (approx. USD 3.4) per pack.

South Korea’s National Assembly Legislation and Judiciary Committee passed a long-debated amendment to the Tobacco Business Act on November 26, expanding the legal definition of tobacco to include synthetic nicotine e-cigarettes. The amendment aims to end the regulatory blind spot surrounding such products while ensuring transitional support for vape retailers and a grace period for compliance.

Shenzhen e-commerce companies dominate 2025 Top 500 list, including 13 e-cigarette businesses. Shenzhen FirstUnion Tech climbs 57 spots.

At the FDLI Tobacco and Nicotine Policy Conference, FDA CTP Acting Director Bret Koplow spoke in favor of promoting tobacco harm reduction to reduce smoking. He backed a legal marketplace for authorized reduced-risk products, potential expansion of flavored e-cigs, and faster FDA reviews to ensure a strong, regulated market.