Policy News

The National Assembly of Vietnam passed a new tax on tobacco products that is estimated to reduce the number of people who smoke by 2.2 million by 2030. Effective in 2027, this tax hike reflects the commitment of public health advocates to making Vietnam a healthier place for all.

The trend of banning disposable vapes continues, with New Zealand and Switzerland being the latest countries to join the list. We are hopeful that more nations around the world will take action to reduce plastic and hazardous waste pollution!

The U.K. banned disposable vapes in October 2024, and the ban went into effect on June 1, 2025. The bill received support from environmental and health advocacy groups, who cited the hazardous effects on youth and the environment.

To curb teen nicotine exposure and use, France has announced a ban on smoking in areas where youth congregate, such as bus stops, beaches, parks, and sports facilities. Beginning July 1, 2025, this prohibition aims to de-normalize commercial tobacco use from an early age. We hope this is a step toward additional bans that will include minimum distances from these spaces and prohibit the use of other tobacco products, particularly e-cigarettes.