At the 2Firsts Global NGP Forum, MK Lab CEO KUNIYOSHI/MAKIO provided an in-depth analysis of Japan's e-cigarette market, examining regulatory constraints, consumer trends, and localized marketing strategies. He emphasized that viewing "product as culture" is key to overcoming regulatory and user barriers.

The U.S. Fourth Circuit Court upheld North Carolina's right to ban the sale of FDA-unapproved e-cigarettes, rejecting an injunction request. Plaintiffs argued the state can't enforce FDA rules, but the state said halting the law would cause confusion. The case remains under review.

Xinan Liu, Associate Researcher at the Brain Science Institute of the Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, delivered a keynote speech at the 2Firsts Global NGP Forum titled "The Global Opportunities and Challenges of The Novel Tobacco Industry from a Scientific Perspective".

A U.S. study found teens using e-cigarettes or cigarettes are more likely to experience depression and anxiety. Based on 2021–2023 national survey data, 21.31% of students used tobacco, including 9.94% using e-cigarettes. Tobacco users showed higher mental health risks than non-users. Experts call for strengthened mental health support and targeted interventions.

Montgomery County, Maryland, will use over $1.3 million from the JUUL and Altria settlement to fund youth mental health and substance abuse prevention programs, including soccer coaching and vaping cessation initiatives, with a focus on communities heavily impacted by e-cigarette use.