Tim Hong - Clearing the Air

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Germany plans menthol vape ban under draft cooling agents rule

Germany is moving to ban menthol vapes and a wide range of e-liquids containing cooling agents under draft regulations that could take effect later in 2026. The proposal, put forward by the Federal Ministry for Agriculture, would prohibit menthol and other flavourings…

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770,000 UK vapers could return to smoking if flavours restricted, data shows

Up to 770,000 UK adults who vape could return to smoking if flavour options were restricted, according to new data, as Parliament debates the Tobacco and Vapes Bill. The findings are based on a December 2025 Opinium survey of 6,000 UK adults…

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WHO chief urges Ireland to close EU nicotine ‘loopholes’ ahead of presidency

The head of the World Health Organisation (WHO) has urged Ireland to use its influence at EU level to tighten regulation of nicotine products, warning of “strong industry opposition” from the tobacco lobby. In a letter dated August 22nd to Health Minister…

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Vape manufacturers signal co-ordinated price increase

The largest vape manufacturers in China, where almost all of vaping hardware is manufactured, have issued a joint letter - seen by Clearing the Air and posted to social media - indicating their intention to raise export prices by up to 13%.…

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Vaping in cars carrying children to be banned in England

Vaping in cars carrying anyone under 18 will be banned in England under government plans to reduce the harm caused by smoking and vapes. The proposal is included in the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which is currently progressing through Parliament. Smoking in…

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UK Government consults on expanding smoke-free rules in England

The UK Government will today (Friday) launch a 12-week public consultation on proposals to extend smoke-free legislation in England, as part of its 10 Year Health Plan. The consultation will run from 13 February to 8 May and will help shape regulations…

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Majority of French smokers turning to cross-border and illegal markets as prices rise, study finds

A majority of French smokers are now sourcing tobacco and vaping products outside traditional retail channels, with many turning to cross-border shopping or illicit markets as prices increase, according to a new national survey. The Ifop study of 3,000 smokers and vapers…

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EU backlash grows over Spain’s nicotine pouch restrictions

A widening coalition of EU member states is pushing back against Spain’s plans to impose sweeping restrictions on nicotine pouches and other smoke-free products, warning Brussels against adopting similar measures across the bloc. The latest objections target Madrid’s updated proposal and follow…

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Mexico’s vape ban sparks jail threat for travellers

Mexico has begun enforcing a sweeping new ban on vapes, raising the risk of jail time and heavy fines for travellers who bring vape products into the country. The measures came into force on January 17, 2026, following the publication of a…

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