From Nov. 20 to Nov. 25, delegates representing the countries that have signed to the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) will gather in Panama City to discuss tobacco and nicotine policies at the 10th Conference of the Parties (COP10). It’s an event that warrants close scrutiny because the decisions taken at COP tend to have profound implications on the nicotine business and its customers, impacting the future of manufacturers, suppliers and tobacco growers along with stakeholders such as smokers and vapers.
In this section, Tobacco Reporter features a selection of its COP10 coverage.
22nd Century Group Backs FDA’s Proposed Reduced Nicotine Standard
It criticized Big Tobacco’s stance as contradictory, arguing that support for a reduced nicotine mandate aligns with pursuing a “smoke-free future.”
Vape Industry Slams Malaysia’s Proposed Ban, Points to Illegal Trade
The real problem lies with unapproved products and criminal misuse, not licensed businesses.
Trinidad & Tobago Considers Harm Reduction in Tobacco Policy
The absence of laws specific to vaping has left products in a legal grey area, creating uncertainty for smokers.
Joya de Nicaragua to Take Over U.S. Distribution from Drew Estate
Joya de Nicaragua, said the change reflects “taking ownership of the path ahead” while maintaining strong ties with Drew Estate.
Indonesia’s Tobacco Excise Policy is Public Health Puzzle
The government employs a complex excise structure designed to reduce consumption, maximize revenue, protect tobacco industry jobs, and combat the illegal cigarette trade.
FDA’s Makary Wants Retailers to Crack Down on Illegal Nicotine Products
To help retailers comply, the FDA is mailing educational packets that include a list of the 39 e-cigarettes and 20 nicotine pouches legally allowed on the market.
PMI Pushes Smoke-Free, Green Agenda in Egypt
PMI has invested $14 billion in smoke-free innovation since 2008, with nearly all of its R&D now dedicated to alternatives to cigarettes.
Health Minister: Tobacco Black Market ‘Thriving’ Across Australia
Organized crime has seized control of the multi-billion-dollar market, with violence, arson, and gang turf wars now common.
Malaysia to Enforce Tobacco Display Ban This Week
“Some smaller operators may face challenges in terms of space and storage, but overall, members are aware that enforcement begins October 1.”
Illicit Cigarettes Grip Majority Share in Pakistan
Industry experts point to weak enforcement of Pakistan’s Track & Trace system, a digital tax-stamp program meant to monitor production and sales.
Ireland to Ban Tobacco and Vape Vending Machine Sales
“We are cutting off an avenue of easy access that has been shown to contribute to early experimentation and long-term addiction.”
Italy Busts Largest Counterfeit Cigarette Factory
The 1,600-square-meter underground facility produced an estimated 2.7 billion cigarettes annually.
Indonesia Working Against Illegal Cigarettes
Data from the Ministry of Industry shows illegal cigarettes rose from 3% of total cigarette volume in 2019 to 6.9% in 2023, with machine-rolled clove cigarettes (SKM) making up the bulk,
EU Tobacco Tax Plan Faces Fierce Pushback
A new “TEDOR” mechanism would redirect 15% of national tobacco excise revenue to the EU budget, raising an estimated €11 billion annually.
Malaysian Think Tank Warns Vape Bans Will Fuel Black Market
The warning follows a survey by the Malaysian Vapers Alliance showing 74% of consumers fear bans will drive illegal sales, while 80% worry about unsafe, unregulated products.
