IQOS Smoking Room at Manila International Airport

Mexico’s Chamber of Deputies Health Commission has approved a bill establishing a total ban on vapes and e-cigarettes, with penalties ranging from one to eight years in prison and fines between Mex$11,000 and Mex$226,000 (USD ≈$600–$12,300). The proposal sparked controversy among opposition lawmakers, who argued that the legislation criminalizes users rather than focusing on regulation and prevention.

Organigram Global has named James Yamanaka, previously Global Head of Strategy at British American Tobacco (BTI), as its new CEO. His appointment is expected to take effect around January 15, 2026, and he will also join the company’s board. Yamanaka brings more than 20 years of strategic and managerial experience from roles across Europe and Asia at BTI.

Canadian outlet Rebel News released a long-form video report examining Canada’s regulatory framework for nicotine pouches, market dynamics, and the approval process of ZONNIC, a product of BAT subsidiary Imperial Tobacco Canada. The report highlights issues involving youth access, regulatory gaps, black-market activity, retailer feedback, and company responses. This article summarizes key points based on the video.

Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares and Tax Commissioner James J. Alex have asked a federal court to dismiss a lawsuit challenging the state’s ban on flavored e-cigarettes. They argue plaintiffs lack standing because the products are already illegal under federal law. The state denies claims of federal preemption and asserts sovereign immunity, maintaining that its ban aligns with its authority to protect public health.

Charlie’s Holdings has signed a licensing agreement with IKE Tech to commercialize an age-gated vape activation system in the U.S. The technology combines biometric authentication, BLE hardware, and a mobile app for continuous device-level age verification. The company plans to test-market the system with SBX nicotine analogue products this spring and may later apply it to PACHA-branded ENDS.

A licensing meeting in Bradford was told that the rising use of cannabis vapes is a “threat to the younger generation”. E-cigarettes containing THC are illegal for recreational purposes but have been found on sale in the district.