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Tag: e-cigarettes

  • FDA Sends ENDS Comment Period Reminder

    FDA Sends ENDS Comment Period Reminder

    Today (April 8), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Tobacco Products issued a reminder that the public has until 11:59 p.m. EDT on May 11 to submit comments on its draft guidance for flavored e-cigarette applications, docketed as FDA-2026-D-1817 on Regulations.gov.

    The reminder relates to draft guidance the agency released on March 11, titled “Flavored Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) Premarket Applications – Considerations Related to Youth Risk,” which outlines how the FDA plans to weigh the youth appeal of flavored products against any added benefit they may provide to adults compared with tobacco-flavored options, including expectations for evidence on adult switching, youth initiation risk, and the potential use of device access-restriction technology.

  • Court Allows Majority of Juul Lawsuits to Proceed

    Court Allows Majority of Juul Lawsuits to Proceed

    A judge in Delaware Superior Court largely denied a motion by Juul Labs Inc. to dismiss more than 1,000 consolidated lawsuits alleging the company misled consumers about the health risks and addictiveness of its e-cigarettes. The plaintiffs claim Juul’s marketing, product design, and nicotine formulations contributed to addiction and health harms, particularly among young users, and that the company failed to adequately warn consumers. Juul had argued that many of the claims were legally deficient and should be thrown out before trial.

    The court trimmed or dismissed certain narrower counts, but allowed most of the core claims to move forward, including allegations tied to consumer protection, fraud, and failure to warn. The ruling means the bulk of the litigation will proceed into further discovery and pretrial phases.

  • Lawsuit Says Marketing Compromises Chinese Vape Company

    Lawsuit Says Marketing Compromises Chinese Vape Company

    A U.S. plaintiff has filed suit against Chinese vape manufacturer Shenzhen IVPS Technology Co. Ltd. in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina, alleging harms linked to the company’s marketing and sales of e-cigarettes in North Carolina. The manufacturer is seeking to dismiss the case, arguing that its operations do not establish sufficient ties to the state for the court to assert jurisdiction. The plaintiff maintains that the company’s active promotion and sale of its products in North Carolina bring it squarely within the court’s reach.

  • Azerbaijan Sets Fines for E-cigarette Violations

    Azerbaijan Sets Fines for E-cigarette Violations

    Azerbaijan introduced fines targeting e-cigarette use and commerce under amendments to the Administrative Offenses Code signed by President Ilham Aliyev, AzerNEWS reported. Individuals using e-cigarettes in prohibited public areas, including streets, face a 30 manat ($17.60) fine, while violations involving import, export, production, wholesale, retail sale, or storage of e-cigarettes and components carry steeper penalties. Fines range from 350–500 manat ($205–$294) for individuals, 1,650–2,200 manat ($970–$1,294) for officials, and 4,000–5,000 manat ($2,352–$2,941) for legal entities, with any contraband products subject to confiscation.

  • Mexico Implements Vape Ban

    Mexico Implements Vape Ban

    Beginning today (January 16), Mexico has implemented a sweeping ban on the marketing, importation, and sale of electronic cigarettes and vaping devices following a reform to the General Health Law published in the Official Gazette of the Federation. The measure establishes an absolute prohibition covering all electronic smoking devices, including disposable, rechargeable, and nicotine-free products, as well as their accessories and substances, and bars any form of advertising or promotion in all media.

    While personal possession and consumption will remain legal as long as there is no commercial intent, violations of the new rules may result in prison sentences of one to eight years and fines of up to 2,000 times the daily value of the Unit of Measurement and Update (UMA). Health authorities are also empowered to seize products and shut down noncompliant establishments.

  • FDA and CBP Seize $34M in Illegal E-Cigarettes in Chicago

    FDA and CBP Seize $34M in Illegal E-Cigarettes in Chicago

    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today (May 22) announced the seizure of nearly 2 million units of unauthorized e-cigarette products in Chicago, with an estimated retail value of $33.8 million. The seizures, which occurred in February of this year in collaboration with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), were part of a joint federal operation to examine incoming shipments and prevent illegal e-cigarettes from entering the country.

    During this operation, the team uncovered shipments of various illegal e-cigarette products, almost all of which originated in China and were intended for shipment to various U.S. states. FDA and CBP personnel determined that, in an apparent attempt to evade duties and the review of products for import safety concerns, many of these unauthorized e-cigarette shipments contained vague product descriptions with incorrect values. Upon examining shipments, the team found several brands of unauthorized e-cigarettes, including Snoopy Smoke, Raz, and others.

    “The FDA, working with our federal partners, can and will do more to stop the illegal importation and distribution of e-cigarette products in the United States,” said FDA commissioner Marty Makary. “Seizures of illegal e-cigarettes keep products that haven’t been authorized by the FDA out of the United States and out of the hands of our nation’s youth.”

    In the lead up to this operation, the joint FDA and CBP team identified potentially violative incoming shipments and completed other investigative work. The team was also able to successfully implement several new internal efficiencies and procedures, building off previous operations.

    “We continue to see an increased number of shipments of vaping-related products packaged and mislabeled to avoid detection,” said Bret Koplow, acting director of the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products. “However, we have been successful at preventing these shipments from entering the U.S. supply chain – despite efforts to conceal the true identity of these unauthorized e-cigarette products.”

    Most shipments violated the FDA’s Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, while some products were also seized for Intellectual Property Rights violations for unauthorized use of protected trademarks. All of the e-cigarette products seized in this operation lacked the mandatory premarket authorization orders from the FDA and therefore cannot be legally marketed or distributed in the United States.

    Standard practice for products forfeited to the government include disposing of the products in accordance with the law. In the case of unauthorized new tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, that generally means they will be destroyed.

    FDA also sent, for the first time, import informational letters to 24 tobacco importers and entry filers responsible for importing these illegal e-cigarettes. The letters advise the recipients that it is a federal crime to make false statements or entries to the U.S. government, and the FDA seeks information on the steps they have taken to ensure compliance with applicable federal tobacco laws and regulations. Specifically, the letters advise the firms to ensure their import entries contain complete and accurate information moving forward. Failure to do so may also be viewed as an intentional attempt to circumvent the FDA’s review of the shipment. Firms are requested to respond to the letters within 30 days with the requested information.

  • FDA Says it Prevented 444,000 Youth from Using E-Cigs Last Year

    FDA Says it Prevented 444,000 Youth from Using E-Cigs Last Year

    Today, a study co-authored by U.S. Food and Drug Administration scientists was released showing the agency’s youth e-cigarette prevention campaign, “The Real Cost,” successfully reduced e-cigarette use among youth. The campaign, which launched in 2018 under the leadership of President Trump, was found to have prevented an estimated 444,252 American youth (age 11 to 17 at study recruitment) from starting to use e-cigarettes between 2023 and 2024.

    Published in the peer-reviewed scientific journal American Journal of Preventive Medicine, the study found evidence that the campaign contributed to the nearly 70% decline in e-cigarette use among American youth that has occurred since 2019. According to the National Youth Tobacco Survey, the number of U.S. middle and high school students who currently use e-cigarettes has declined from 5.38 million in 2019 to 1.63 million in 2024, the lowest level in a decade.

    “As part of our work to Make America Healthy Again, we must ensure that children have a healthy start in life,” said Acting FDA Commissioner Sara Brenner, M.D., M.P.H. “This includes taking evidence-based actions to prevent youth tobacco product use.”

    Data from the evaluation, which followed a nationally representative sample of U.S. youth over time, showed that viewing ads from “The Real Cost” lowered chances that youth who had never used an e-cigarette would later initiate use. The survey collected information on how frequently youth were exposed to “The Real Cost” campaign and which youth went on to try e-cigarettes, among other variables.

    “Adolescence is a critical period for prevention efforts because most adults who use tobacco products begin using them in their teenage years,” said Brian King, Ph.D., M.P.H., director of the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products. “Youth tobacco prevention campaigns not only work, but they are also a cost-effective approach to protecting young people from a lifetime of nicotine addiction.”  

    “The Real Cost” Youth E-cigarette Prevention Campaign uses a variety of marketing tactics and creative advertising to reach youth. Advertising and prevention materials are delivered across communication channels relevant to teens, including digital and streaming platforms, social media and gaming platforms. The agency’s activities also include compliance and enforcement actions across the supply chain – in coordination with federal partners using their unique authorities – to ensure that those that make, distribute or sell illegal tobacco products are held accountable to the law.

  • Belgium First in EU to Ban Disposable Vapes

    Belgium First in EU to Ban Disposable Vapes

    Belgium will ban the sale of disposable electronic cigarettes as of Jan. 1 on health and environmental grounds in a groundbreaking move for European Union nations.

    Health minister Frank Vandenbroucke said the inexpensive e-cigarettes had turned into a health threat since they are an easy way for teenagers to be drawn into smoking and get hooked on nicotine.

    “Disposable e-cigarettes is a new product simply designed to attract new consumers,” he said in an interview, according to NPR.

    Because they are disposable, the plastic, battery and circuits are a burden on the environment. On top of that, “they create hazardous waste chemicals still present in what people throw away,” Vandenbroucke said, adding that he wants tougher tobacco measures in the 27-nation bloc.

    “We are really calling on the European Commission to come forward now with new initiatives to update, to modernize, the tobacco legislation,” he said.

    There is an understanding of Belgium’s decision, even in some shops selling electronic cigarettes, and especially on the environmental issue.

    Once the cigarette is empty, “the battery is still working. That’s what is terrible, is that you could recharge it, but you have no way of recharging it,” said Steven Pomeranc, owner of the Brussels Vapotheque shop. “So you can imagine the level of pollution it creates.”

    A ban usually means a financial loss to the industry, but Pomeranc thinks it will not hurt too much.

    “We have a lot of alternative solutions which are also very easy to use,” he said. “Like this pod system, which are pre-filled with liquid, which can just be clipped into the rechargeable e-cigarette. So we will simply have a shift of clients towards this new system.”

  • Wang: Global Trade Tariffs in Vaping

    Wang: Global Trade Tariffs in Vaping

    The vaping industry has always faced its share of challenges—from shifting regulatory landscapes to evolving consumer preferences. However, a few factors significantly threaten the industry’s future, such as the impact of global trade tariffs. With the United States set to increase tariffs on Chinese imports, companies that fail to adapt could face skyrocketing costs, disrupted supply chains, and a diminished ability to compete in one of the world’s largest markets.

    Trade tensions between the U.S. and China have been escalating for several years. The vaping industry, which relies heavily on hardware manufactured in China, is particularly vulnerable to these developments. Currently, vaping products imported from China face a 25% tariff, but there is a high likelihood that this could double or even increase to 100% under future U.S. administrations.

    For vaping companies, such tariff hikes mean the cost of importing devices could skyrocket. A 100% tariff would effectively double the cost of hardware produced in China, driving up retail prices for all such products in the U.S. market. This scenario threatens the financial viability of vaping companies and the availability of affordable, high-quality products for consumers.

    The Strategic Decision to Move Manufacturing to Malaysia

    Recognizing the potential for increasing tariffs and broader geopolitical challenges, some vaping manufacturers began shifting their operations from China to other countries. Such decisions were never made lightly. China has long been a global leader in manufacturing efficiency with a robust infrastructure and supply-chain network,, and moving away from such an established infrastructure posed significant logistical and operational challenges.

    Malaysia offered several key advantages to manufacturers. Firstly, Malaysia enjoys favorable trade agreements with the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union. For instance, starting in December 2024, a new free trade agreement between Malaysia and the U.K. took effect, eliminating tariffs on products moving between the two countries. Similar agreements are in place or in development with other major markets.

    Secondly, Malaysia’s robust manufacturing ecosystem and skilled workforce make it an ideal location for high-quality production. By establishing operations in Malaysia, companies can continue to deliver reliable, innovative hardware without the added burden of excessive tariffs.

    The Broader Impact on the Global Supply Chain

    The shift to Malaysia reflects a broader trend in global manufacturing. As trade barriers between the U.S. and China grow, a widespread redistribution of manufacturing operations is underway. Companies across industries—not just vaping—are reevaluating their supply chains to reduce dependence on any single country.

    This global redistribution of resources presents both challenges and opportunities. For manufacturers, the challenge lies in building new infrastructure, securing reliable suppliers, and maintaining quality control in unfamiliar territories. However, companies that successfully navigate these changes benefit from more resilient supply chains, reduced geopolitical risk, and greater flexibility in responding to market shifts.

    Maintaining Compliance and Quality Standards

    Shifting manufacturing bases also brings new compliance considerations. Regulatory bodies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) require Premarket Tobacco Product Applications (PMTAs) for vaping devices. These applications are tied to specific manufacturing facilities, meaning that changing production locations requires amendments to existing PMTAs or new submissions.

    Manufacturers must ensure that new facilities meet the highest quality and compliance standards. Proactively managing these regulatory requirements ensures that products remain market-ready even as production locations change.

    The Future of the Vaping Industry Amid Trade Challenges

    Looking ahead, it’s clear that trade tariffs and global manufacturing shifts are not short-term challenges. Regardless of who occupies the White House, protectionist trade policies are likely to persist or even intensify. The vaping industry must be prepared for this new reality.

    Companies that fail to diversify their manufacturing operations face mounting costs and increasing vulnerability to trade disruptions. On the other hand, those who invest in flexible, resilient supply chains will be well-positioned to thrive.

    The vaping industry is at a crossroads. Global trade tariffs pose a significant threat, but they also offer an opportunity for companies to rethink their supply chains and build more resilient operations. For manufacturers, shifting production from China to countries like Malaysia is not just a reactive measure—it’s a strategic move to secure long-term growth and competitiveness.

    As the industry moves forward, companies that adapt to these challenges will be the ones that lead the way. The ability to anticipate trade disruptions, embrace innovation and maintain rigorous quality standards will determine who succeeds in this ever-evolving market.

    As co-CEO of Ispire Technology Inc., Michael Wang is a leader in the development and commercialization of vaping technology and precision dosing. Previously, he served in executive roles at The Pharm/Sunday Goods, Onestop Commerce, Zazzle, and Honeywell.

  • FDA Warns 9 More for Illegal Vape Sales

    FDA Warns 9 More for Illegal Vape Sales

    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued warning letters to eight online retailers and one manufacturer for selling and/or distributing unauthorized flavored, disposable e-cigarettes.

    Some of the unauthorized products cited in the warning letters are marketed under brand names for disposable products, including Geek Bar and Lost Mary, according to the FDA. Other unauthorized products cited feature the names and/or images of celebrities.

    The firms receiving these warning letters sold and/or distributed e-cigarettes in the United States that lack authorization from FDA to be legally marketed in the U.S., which is in violation of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.

    In addition to the violations mentioned in the warning letters, the firms were warned to address any violations that are the same as, or similar to, those stated in the warning letter and to promptly take necessary actions to comply with the law.

    Failure to promptly correct the violations can result in additional actions such as an injunction, seizure, and/or civil money penalty.