The global nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) market is expected to experience substantial growth, driven by rising awareness of smoking’s health risks, increasing smoking cessation programs, and the development of innovative NRT products. North America currently leads the market due to strong public health initiatives and a robust healthcare infrastructure.
In a unanimous decision, the Minneapolis City Council has imposed a landmark minimum retail price of $15 per pack for cigarettes. This sweeping ordinance aims to promote public health by deterring smoking and preventing retailers from circumventing the price floor through discounts and coupons. Additionally, the distribution of free samples has been prohibited. The move positions Minneapolis as the city with the highest cigarette prices in the United States, surpassing New York City’s $13 minimum. The ordinance, authored by Council Member LaTrisha Vetaw, is supported by Council President Andrea Jenkins, who credits increased cigarette prices as a catalyst for her own smoking cessation. Penalties for violating the ordinance range from fines to license suspensions and revocations.
