Two recent news events send a clear signal: the global nicotine and new tobacco product industry is rapidly moving into an era of strict regulation.

Philippines: Import Barriers Significantly Raised

On August 7, the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) issued Department Administrative Order No. 25-10 (2025), requiring all nicotine and new tobacco products imported into the Philippines to obtain Philippine Standard (Non-PS) certification.

● E-commerce, free ports, air, and sea shipments are all subject to strict supervision

● Products without certification will be barred from entry

●Legal basis includes nicotine and vaping regulations, standards law, consumer protection law, and cross-border trade laws

● The policy aims to ensure products meet both national and international quality standards

United States: Grey Market Channels Shut Down

On August 11, the United States Postal Service (USPS) banned Demand Vapes from using expedited shipping channels, citing the distribution of e-cigarette products not authorized by the FDA.

● This move directly targets “unregulated vaping products”

● It benefits international giants such as BAT and Altria that hold regulatory approvals

● The U.S. “regulatory grey area” is rapidly closing

● BAT estimates the U.S. unauthorized vaping market to be worth around £6 billion (about $8.05 billion), now facing increased scrutiny and cleanup pressure

Shared Global Message

Lower tolerance for unregulated nicotine and new tobacco products

Reduced survival space for uncertified, unauthorized products

Greater market concentration for compliant, legitimate brands

Implications for the Nicotine Pouch Industry

1.Compliance Costs Will Become the "Entry Ticket"

Whether entering emerging markets like the Philippines or mature markets in the U.S. and Europe, nicotine pouches will need proper testing, certification, and registration.

2.Reduced Room for Non-Compliant Products

Grey market channels and low-quality products are being phased out as the industry undergoes a "reshuffling" period.

3.Leading Companies Will Benefit First

International giants such as BAT and Altria, with regulatory resources and experience, can secure market share early, while small manufacturers lacking compliance systems will be forced out.

4.Long-Term Growth Through Strong Regulation

Stricter regulations will boost consumer confidence in product safety, helping nicotine pouches transition from a niche segment to a mainstream market.

In One Sentence

The nicotine pouch industry is shifting from wild growth to regulated development — whoever complies first will win the future.