In recent years, the e-cigarette industry has rapidly evolved, introducing numerous new products and technologies that have attracted companies from all over the world. Here are some of the latest developments shaping the e-cigarette market.
1. Philippines Halts Sales of Five E-Cigarette Brands, Including LOST MARY and Chillax
According to a report by DTI News, the Philippines’ Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has announced the suspension of sales for five e-cigarette brands due to alleged violations of the country’s E-Cigarette Act. The suspended brands include LOST MARY, Chillax, SHFT & DR FREEZE, AEROGIN & DON BARS, and BLACK ELIFTE.
Under Administrative Order No. 913 (1983), Article 11, these brands will be prohibited from conducting sales and transactions until formal charges are resolved. Additionally, some brands’ Product Standard (PS) licenses have been affected. If sales of these products continue, penalties will include fines of 2 million pesos (around $36,000) for the first offense, 4 million pesos for the second, and 5 million pesos along with license revocation for the third offense.
DTI’s Office for the Supervision of Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products (OSMV) has issued policy guidelines under Republic Act No. 11900. These guidelines clarify the elements that constitute violations to ensure consistent regulation enforcement and provide a predictable process for handling formal charges.
2. Blockchain Revolution in the E-Cigarette Industry: PuffPaw Secures $6 Million in Funding
As reported by CoinDesk, blockchain-based e-cigarette company PuffPaw recently raised $6 million in seed funding.
The round was led by Lemniscar Ventures, with participation from Bolt Capital, Spartan, and Hollius Ventures. PuffPaw’s project leverages a token-based incentive system to help users reduce nicotine consumption while tracking their smoking habits. This innovative approach integrates blockchain technology with health management, offering a fresh, tech-driven method to quit smoking.
However, PuffPaw’s blockchain solution is just one of many innovations in the e-cigarette space. Monvaper’s Smart DMC technology is another breakthrough, offering a unique approach to managing smoking habits. Compared to PuffPaw’s DePIN technology, Monvaper Smart DMC provides a more personalized experience through precise data monitoring and management. For a detailed comparison of these two technologies and their unique features, read this article: Monvaper Smart DMC vs. PuffPaw DePIN.
3. South Africa’s Investment Firm Ventures into the E-Cigarette Market with LoveinaPuff
According to Bizcommunity, Exso, a new subsidiary of the Richmark Group, has officially entered the e-cigarette market with its new LoveinaPuff line.
Exso, founded by serial entrepreneurs Trent Varejes, Ryan Vercueil, and Kevin Whittaker, aims to tap into the cultural trend of e-cigarettes, especially among young and tech-savvy consumers. The brand stands out for its unique flavors and long-lasting disposable e-cigarettes, free of tobacco, smoke, or harmful chemicals, blending style, quality, and innovation to become a brand to watch.
Trent Varejes explained: “E-cigarettes have become a central part of a lifestyle movement based on personalization, artistic expression, and a genuine sense of community. As this culture grows, particularly among younger, tech-savvy audiences, its impact on pop culture continues to expand.”
4. U.S. Teen E-Cigarette Use Hits a Decade Low
As reported by AP News, government officials recently announced that the percentage of teens using e-cigarettes has reached its lowest level in a decade. This year’s data shows a decrease from 7.7% in 2023 to below 6%, which is roughly one-third of the peak rate in 2019.
Brian King, FDA’s Tobacco Director, commented, “This is a major public health achievement. But there is still work to be done to further reduce youth vaping.”