IQOS Smoking Room at Manila International Airport

Acting on directives from senior government and police officials, Thai authorities seized 48,301 e-cigarettes and related products in central Thailand, valued at about 20 million baht (approximately US$630,000), as part of a crackdown on illegal vaping.

Selangor, Malaysia proposes federal government share e-cigarette tax revenues for local enforcement, suggesting collaboration for better regulation.

Imperial Brands has launched its ZONE nicotine pouches in the UK, targeting the mainstream 9–12 mg nicotine strength segment. The brand debuts with five flavours at a recommended retail price of £6.50 per can. Mint variants currently account for around 70% of UK nicotine pouch sales, while fruit flavours are growing rapidly. ZONE will be distributed primarily through independent retail channels.

Philip Morris International (PMI) has partnered with Italian design brand Seletti on a limited-edition IQOS collaboration, unveiled at Milan’s Pirelli HangarBicocca. The collection features two models, launching first in Japan before rolling out to 13 global travel retail markets. PMI says the partnership leverages design and cultural storytelling to advance its smoke-free transition.

South Africa is drafting new tobacco legislation aimed at reducing smoking-related deaths and promoting harm reduction.PMI said smoke-free products such as nicotine pouches and heated devices could play a critical role in reducing harm. Patrik Hildingsson, PMI’s director for oral products communications, said South Africa is developing a new regulatory framework to recognise and regulate smoke-free products, calling it a “big change” for the industry.

Germany's Federal Council calls for ban on disposable e-cigarettes due to environmental and economic threats, sparking debate.