Five years after India’s vape ban, illicit sales are booming and smokers are denied safer alternatives. In this exclusive piece for 2Firsts, AVI Director Samrat Chowdhery explores the policy’s unintended consequences and calls for regulatory reform.

In an exclusive interview with 2Firsts, former BAT Design Director Jonathon Lister offers an in-depth analysis of the design philosophy and strategic thinking behind glo Hyper Pro. He advocates for design that builds trust, responds to regulation, and conveys values—arguing that the future of novel tobacco products lies not in manufacturing capability, but in cultural judgment and ethical awareness. This is not just the story of a product, but an attempt to reshape the industry's way of thinking

Brazil has long been hailed as a global model in tobacco farming—known for its high yields, quality leaf, and sustainable practices. But shifting demographics, labor shortages, and the rise of next-generation products are reshaping the landscape. In this 2Firsts exclusive, Afubra President Marcilio Drescher reflects on 70 years of progress and the uncertain road ahead for Brazil’s 90,000 growers.

In the first week following the UK's disposable vape ban, the MHRA database showed zero active disposable product SKUs. Meanwhile, 194 new SKUs were added under refillable e-liquid containers and pods. Brands like RELX, FUMOT, HAYATI, and INNOKIN actively listed a wide range of 20mg/ml standard pods and pod-based devices.

As next-generation products reshape the global tobacco landscape, ITGA President Jose Aranda tells 2Firsts that growers must be included in policymaking, not sidelined. He advocates for stronger international cooperation to help farmers adapt to sustainability, climate, and market challenges.