WHO’s Call for Stricter Regulations

On May 27, 2026, World Vape Day emphasises harm reduction through vaping. The next day, the WHO marks World No Tobacco Day, advocating for stricter rules on vapes and nicotine pouches.

Liza Katsiashvili, Operations Director of the World Vapers’ Alliance, criticised the WHO’s stance, saying, “The WHO lectures the world about nicotine addiction while 8 million people a year die from smoking.” Countries that quickly reduced smoking embraced less harmful alternatives, unlike the WHO’s restrictive policy.

In Asia, nations such as India, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Turkey adhere to the WHO’s recommendations, imposing restrictions on access to less harmful nicotine products. This often leads to increased illicit trade and consumer criminalization.

Public Health Tools or Industry Tactics?

Vaping and nicotine pouches significantly reduce exposure to harmful chemicals linked to smoking-related diseases. While the WHO describes these as industry tactics, countries like Sweden, the UK, Japan, Czechia, and Greece recognise them as public health tools.

The theme for World Vape Day 2026, “One Switch – Everyone Wins,” highlights the benefits when smokers switch to vaping. It reduces exposure to secondhand smoke and decreases smoking-related health risks for children and families.

This week, vapers and harm reduction advocates in Argentina, Germany, and South Africa took to the streets. They demand policies offering smokers real alternatives to cigarettes.

The WHO’s WNTD 2026 campaign portrays vapes as a new threat. However, advocates argue, “Smoke is the problem. Nicotine is not.” This distinction is vital as 8 million deaths occur yearly due to smoking.

Vaping can significantly reduce exposure to the chemicals causing smoking-related diseases. Nicotine, while addictive, is not the main cause of these illnesses. The real danger comes from combustion.

Last updated: 29 June 2026, 11:58 am