FLER at APE

The Guardian reports that British American Tobacco urged Zambian ministers to drop or delay ad and sponsorship bans and to soften a draft tobacco bill by shrinking health warnings, easing flavour restrictions and lowering penalties. Critics said the stance is hypocritical given similar rules apply in the UK.

KDCA reports cigarette smoking among Korean men in their 30s fell from 48% (2015) to 28.5% (2024). Including e-cigarettes, overall use was 40.1% in 2024—just 4.9 points below 2019—suggesting a shift to alternatives.

Inter Tabac 2025, held in Dortmund, Germany, took place from September 18th to 20th. 2Firsts observed that some booths, including those of NYSM, KIWI, Mevol, and FLERBAR, showcased small e-cigarettes. These devices were smaller or thinner than traditional disposable or cartridge-based e-cigarettes and lacked screen functionality.

HSSP INTL(03626.HK) partners with COTY to establish e-cigarette venture in UAE, expand distribution of Heaven Gifts brand.

Lancashire Police seized nearly £200,000 worth of illicit cigarettes and vapes, arrested six suspects, and closed three shops under Operation Wanderstar. Raids on 22 premises across the county also uncovered counterfeit cash, hidden tobacco stashes, and frozen bank accounts linked to suspected money laundering.

Australian Federal Police (AFP) and Western Australia Police seized more than five tonnes of illicit tobacco products in Perth, including over four million cigarettes, about 50,000 vapes, and nearly 900 kilograms of loose-leaf tobacco. Authorities allege the operation, linked to a national organised crime syndicate, aimed to evade around $8 million in Commonwealth excise and taxes.