FLER at APE

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.

Bulgaria will raise excise taxes on cigarettes, cigars, heated tobacco, and e-cigarette liquids starting January 2026. The increase, approved under the 2026 state budget, will be implemented gradually over four years. The Ministry of Finance expects the reform to generate about €130 million in additional revenue by 2026.

Malaysian suspect accused of illegal e-cigarette trading in Singapore to face court next week for fraud and obstruction charges.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has added Cytisinicline, a plant-based therapy developed by Achieve Life Sciences for nicotine vaping addiction, to its new National Priority Voucher (CNPV) program. The initiative shortens drug review timelines from 10–12 months to just 1–2 months, expediting approval for treatments that address major public health needs.

As Russia’s federal vape policy stalls, regional governors are racing to implement local bans—now with the backing of President Vladimir Putin. The divide between swift local action and delayed national legislation is fueling debate over health, regulation, and the country’s broader approach to nicotine control.