A global health expert and anti-smoking advocate for more than 30 years, Derek Yach is the owner of Global Health Strategies. Previously, Yach was the director of the Foundation for a Smoke-Free World and a World Health Organization cabinet director and executive director for noncommunicable diseases and mental health. He was deeply involved with the development of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. On this page we feature a selection of Yach’s contributions to Tobacco Reporter.

Zest Gets Injunction Against FDA for Pouches
The court found Zest Brands is likely to succeed on claims that the FDA failed to adequately assess the impact of its 2021 PMTA regulations on small businesses.

Kenyan Tobacco Farmers Protest Harsh Working Conditions
Some farmers say they are currently bearing medical costs linked to tobacco-related ailments and accuse companies of not prioritizing worker safety.

Bangladesh’s Bidi Prices Remain Unchanged for FY27
The minister confirmed that the current framework will be maintained, keeping bidi taxation and pricing consistent with the previous fiscal year.

Oman Health Officials Call for Stronger Tobacco Laws
Experts are urging to strengthen enforcement and expand regulatory frameworks to cover both traditional tobacco and newer nicotine products.

Health Groups Urge China to Raise Tobacco Taxes
The discussion comes amid ongoing concerns that smoking rates remain relatively high despite existing control measures.

New Report Predicts 17% Increase in Cigarette Market by 2032
The U.S. cigarette market was valued at $197.3 billion in 2025, while China is projected to expand at a 4.2% CAGR to $162.5 billion by 2032.


