Weekly Vape News 6

Weekly vape news content outline:

• PMTA Progress: 70% approval for 189 submissions, completion by year’s end.
• Philip Morris introduces Veev One in Italy: Innovative pod, 1000 puffs, 2ml capacity.
• Flavor ban now in effect in Quebec, Canada, after two-year delay.
• South Korea sees promising trends: Heated tobacco segment grows to 16.5%.
• Vuse GO MAX by British American Tobacco arrives in Malaysia: 1500 puffs of flavor.
• E-cigarettes officially banned in Kazakhstan.

1. Exciting Progress on PMTA Applications: Nearly 70% Approval for 189 Submissions with Completion Expected by Year’s End

In a significant development, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has made remarkable strides in its review of Pre-Market Tobacco Applications (PMTAs) for electronic cigarettes. As reported by the National Association of Tobacco Outlets (NATO), the FDA has submitted a progress report on e-cigarette PMTA applications to the federal district court in Maryland. The report outlines an encouraging update on the ongoing review process, marking a significant step forward for the industry.

According to the report, a total of 189 applications, known as “Covered Applications,” are currently under consideration. The FDA has taken substantial actions and is poised to undertake the following steps:

As of June 30, 2023, the FDA has successfully completed the review process for 65% of the pending Covered Applications.

By September 30, 2023, the FDA aims to complete the review process for 68% of the 189 Covered Applications.

The FDA’s ambitious goal is to conclude the review process for all 189 Covered Applications by December 31, 2023.

In this latest progress report, the FDA proudly declares that it has maintained a timely pace in the review of PMTA Covered Applications. These applications pertain to electronic cigarette products that were on the market by August 8, 2016, and had submitted PMTAs to the FDA prior to September 9, 2020. Notably, these products constitute 2% or more of total retail e-cigarette sales according to Nielsen retail e-cigarette sales reports. Prominent brands among these include JUUL, Vuse, NJOY, Logic, Blu, SMOK, Suorin, and Puff Bar.

The obligation to provide regular progress reports was originally initiated by public health organizations, urging the FDA to expedite its review of PMTAs by September 9, 2020. While the initial court-mandated review deadline was set for September 9, 2021, the sheer volume of PMTA submissions from manufacturers necessitated ongoing updates on the progress.

As per the current U.S. regulations, in order to legally sell these novel tobacco products, the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act necessitates the FDA to conduct a substantial review of each new tobacco product’s PMTA and issue marketing authorization orders for products deemed permissible for sale. The FDA, in its latest progress report, has committed to submitting another update to the court by October 23, 2023.

The advancements in the review process underscore the FDA’s dedication to ensuring the safety and quality of electronic cigarette products while also fostering innovation in the industry. With nearly 70% of the Covered Applications already approved, industry stakeholders and consumers alike can look forward to an even brighter future for the e-cigarette market.

2. Philip Morris International Unveils Veev One in Italy: Innovative Pod System Delivers 1000 Puffs with 2ml Capacity

Breaking news from the forefront of Italy’s tobacco innovation scene: Philip Morris International, the Italian-based company, has just introduced its cutting-edge electronic cigarette, the Veev One. This new addition to their lineup is poised to cater to the diverse preferences of local consumers, further enriching the landscape of non-combustible products in the region.

Distinguishing itself from its predecessors, the Veev One boasts a sleeker and more user-friendly design, accompanied by a groundbreaking Compact Ceramic heating technology that ensures a consistently satisfying vaping experience from the first puff to the last.

Among its standout features is a built-in system to detect e-liquid levels, thereby preventing overheating and the dreaded burnt taste. Notably, the Veev One extends battery life, enabling users to enjoy an entire pod with just a single charge. With an increased pod capacity of 2ml and enhanced heating power, each pod now supports an astonishing 1000 puffs.

In a remarkable testament to their commitment, Philip Morris International International allocated over 99% of their investments in 2022 to the research and development of non-combustible products. Over the past 15 years, they’ve dedicated a staggering $10 billion to the production, sales, and continuous innovation of these offerings. Currently, a global team of more than 900 scientists from 40 different nationalities, spanning nearly 30 scientific and engineering disciplines, are dedicated to the advancement of these products, representing approximately 35.4% of PMI’s net income for the second quarter of 2023.

Sources reveal that Italian retailers can now order the Veev One through Philip Morris International’s official website, or they can acquire the devices through authorized distributor Puff. Moreover, a variety of replacement pods in tobacco, mint, and fruit flavors are available for purchase, offering consumers a diverse and customizable vaping experience. This announcement marks a significant step forward in Philip Morris International’s ongoing commitment to revolutionizing the tobacco industry and delivering innovative alternatives to consumers across Italy and beyond.

3. Flavor Ban Takes Effect in Quebec, Canada, Two Years After Nationwide Delay

In a significant development this week, Quebec has become the latest province in Canada to enact restrictions on flavored electronic cigarettes, reigniting the debate over the progress of nationwide flavor bans. This decision has stirred discussions about the pace of enforcing flavor bans on a national scale, given that the federal government had initially proposed regulations to ban flavored e-cigarettes back in June 2021, yet final regulations have not been released even after two years, leading some to speculate the plan had been shelved.

Due to the absence of federal legislation, flavor bans for e-cigarettes in Canada have primarily taken the form of provincial regulations. Provinces like Quebec, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and some territories have all taken steps to limit the availability of flavored e-cigarettes. However, advocacy groups pushing for flavor bans argue that a national approach is crucial to ensure consistent regulation of flavored e-cigarettes across the country.

In response to the ongoing debate, relevant agencies have declined local media interview requests, stating in email communications that the department is “examining the complex regulatory issues surrounding flavored e-cigarette products.” Some observers suggest that the government seems to lean towards positioning e-cigarettes as smoking cessation tools, potentially hinting at a shift away from the flavor ban. The e-cigarette industry also stands in opposition to flavor bans, contending that adult smokers should have access to a variety of flavors.

The flavor ban in Quebec has reignited a national discourse on e-cigarettes, with discussions centered around health risks, government oversight, and youth smoking concerns. The differing opinions and stances among the Canadian government, public health experts, advocacy groups, and the industry highlight the complexity of the issue Canada is currently grappling with. The evolving landscape of e-cigarette regulation will undoubtedly continue to shape the country’s approach to public health and harm reduction strategies.

4. Promising Trends in South Korea’s Tobacco Market: Continued Growth of Heated Tobacco Segment, Reaching 16.5%

In a recent announcement, the South Korean Ministry of Finance released its “Tobacco Market Trends for the First Half of 2023” report on July 28th. The report highlighted that tobacco sales in South Korea for the first half of 2023 reached 1.77 billion packs, showing a slight decrease of 0.6% compared to the same period last year. This marks a subtle shift from the recent upward trajectory in sales, indicating a minor downturn for the first time.

Here’s a breakdown of tobacco sales for the first half of the past five years:

2019: 1.67 billion packs

2020: 1.74 billion packs

2021: 1.75 billion packs

2022: 1.78 billion packs

2023: 1.77 billion packs

Significant changes have also been observed in the consumption patterns of different tobacco products over time. The sales ratio between traditional cigarettes and heated tobacco products has undergone remarkable shifts. The proportion of traditional cigarette sales has gradually decreased, while the sales of heated tobacco products have experienced consistent growth.

The market share of heated tobacco electronic cigarettes has shown the following progression:

2017: 2.2%

2018: 9.6%

2019: 10.5%

2020: 10.6%

2021: 12.4%

2022: 14.8%

First Half of 2023: 16.5%

This data indicates a clear trend towards consumers increasingly adopting heated tobacco products as an alternative to traditional cigarettes. The steady rise in the market share of heated tobacco products signifies a growing acceptance of this innovative category among consumers in South Korea. As the nation’s tobacco landscape continues to evolve, these figures provide valuable insights into the changing preferences of consumers and the dynamic nature of the tobacco industry.

5. Exciting Arrival of Vuse GO MAX by British American Tobacco in Malaysia: A Flavorful Delight Offering 1500 Puffs

Breaking news for the Malaysian vaping community! British American Tobacco’s Vuse Malaysia Facebook page has announced the launch of their new disposable product, the Vuse GO MAX, into the Malaysian market on July 31st. This groundbreaking introduction brings a flavorful twist to the vaping landscape, showcasing a product designed for convenience and satisfaction.

The Vuse GO MAX offers an impressive 1500 puffs, each containing a nicotine content of 3%. With a range of seven delectable flavors including mango, strawberry, mint, blueberry, tobacco, watermelon, and grape, vapers are in for a diverse and indulgent experience.

According to available information, the Vuse GO MAX is currently available at convenience stores and gas stations in Kuala Lumpur and Penang, including popular chains such as 7-Eleven, myNEWS, and Shell. For those across the nation, BAT Malaysia’s disposable products can be conveniently accessed through online shopping platforms like Shopee and Lazada. This release comes after British American Tobacco brought its e-cigarette products into the Malaysian market following the official reclassification of liquid nicotine as a non-controlled substance in March of this year.

It’s worth noting that Malaysia’s consumption tax (Amendment) on e-cigarettes took effect on April 1st, levying a tax of 40 cents (0.4 Malaysian Ringgit, approximately 0.6 Chinese Yuan) per milliliter for e-cigarette liquids containing nicotine. However, comprehensive regulations governing e-cigarettes are yet to be established.

The entry of Vuse GO MAX into the Malaysian market signifies a bold step towards expanding options for vapers, providing them with a flavorful and convenient alternative. As vaping enthusiasts celebrate this new addition, the ongoing discussions around regulation and taxation will undoubtedly shape the future of the vaping landscape in Malaysia.

6. Kazakhstan Officially Bans E-cigarettes

In a landmark decision, the Kazakhstani government voted on July 29th to enforce a comprehensive ban on the sale, import, export, and production of electronic cigarette devices and e-liquids. The interdepartmental committee endorsed this pivotal measure with an overwhelming 12-2 majority, indicating strong support from multiple quarters.

According to Nurgul Tau, the Vice Chairman of the Mazhilis (lower house of the Kazakhstani Parliament), members of the interdepartmental committee were almost unanimous in their backing of the ban. He expressed:

“The dangers of electronic cigarettes are undeniable. That is why the Ministry of Health has persistently raised the issue of banning the circulation of electronic cigarettes since 2021. At my request, I proposed a complete ban on the sale of electronic cigarettes. This is a victory for the health of our children and the struggle for their future. Yesterday, members of the interdepartmental committee almost unanimously voted in favor of a complete ban on the sale, import, export, and production of electronic cigarettes.”

The initiative has garnered the support of the Ministry of Health and has been underway since 2022. Following the legislative preparations, which began after May 10th this year, the ban on using e-cigarettes in public spaces was swiftly implemented. This decision comes in response to a concerning trend: an alarming 300% increase in the use of e-cigarettes among underage individuals in Kazakhstan. The country has also witnessed the import of approximately three million e-cigarettes within a span of two and a half years, serving as the backdrop for the newly instituted ban.

This progressive move by the Kazakhstani government not only reflects their commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of their citizens, particularly the youth, but also positions them as a significant player in the global drive to regulate and control the use of electronic cigarettes. With this decisive step, Kazakhstan joins a growing list of nations that are taking proactive measures to address the rising concerns associated with vaping.