An investigation revealed a smuggling network involving China Tobacco International Europe Company (CTIEC) and organized crime groups, including Italy's Camorra. The network smuggled Chinese-made cigarettes into Europe, exploiting legal loopholes and engaging in illicit activities. CTIEC, a subsidiary of China National Tobacco Corporation, was found to be shipping large quantities of cigarettes to suspicious buyers in conflict zones and regions known for smuggling. The operation was linked to an executive at CTIEC, Adina Ionescu, who provided support to smugglers. The case highlights China Tobacco's expansion into new markets through smuggling, a strategy historically used by tobacco companies. Italian authorities, including the Guardia di Finanza, conducted raids and investigations, leading to arrests and exposing the involvement of various individuals and companies in the smuggling ring.

Japan Tobacco International (JTI) has suspended planned investments in Russia and halted marketing activities and the launch of Ploom X due to the sanctions imposed on Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. Despite this, JTI, which is partially owned by Japan's Ministry of Finance, will continue to operate its factories in Russia. This decision contrasts with other corporations like McDonalds, Coca-Cola, and Starbucks, which have ceased operations in Russia. British American Tobacco initially announced partial measures but later decided to divest from Russia. The situation reflects the tension between profit pursuits in Russia and the pressure to comply with sanctions.

Tobacco companies, particularly Japan Tobacco International (JTI), are exploiting loopholes in the European menthol cigarette ban to continue selling products attractive to younger smokers. Despite the ban in May 2020, confusion over what constitutes a 'characterising menthol flavour' has led to a regulatory vacuum, allowing JTI to market its 'menthol reimagined' products. Competitors, including British American Tobacco and Imperial Tobacco, have expressed frustration and called for government investigations. The European Union and Public Health England are conducting ongoing investigations to determine compliance with the ban. The industry's efforts to circumvent the ban have raised concerns among health advocates about the potential impact on youth smoking rates.

A significant number of children in Japan are refusing to attend school, a situation referred to as 'futoko'. The increase in absenteeism has raised questions about whether the issue lies with the educational system or the students themselves. In 2018, over 164,000 children were absent for more than 30 days, not due to health or financial issues but other reasons. The phenomenon of 'futoko' has evolved over the decades, with attitudes shifting from considering it a mental illness to a neutral term. The rise in 'futoko' has led to the growth of 'free schools' that operate on principles of individuality and freedom, though they do not grant recognized diplomas. Long-term effects of absenteeism can be severe, including social withdrawal and increased suicide rates among students. The Japanese government has taken steps to address the issue, and educational experts like Ryo Uchida suggest that the rigid educational system and large class sizes contribute to the problem. Alternative schools like free schools offer a more relaxed environment, but the educational system itself remains a challenge.

In Japan, an increasing number of children are refusing to attend school, a phenomenon known as 'futoko.' As school absenteeism rises, questions arise whether it reflects issues with the educational system rather than the students themselves. The Ministry of Education defines 'futoko' as children who miss more than 30 days of school for non-health or financial reasons. The term has evolved from being considered a mental illness to a more neutral term. In 2018, absenteeism reached a record high with 164,528 children absent for 30 days or more. Free schools, an alternative to traditional education, have been gaining popularity, offering a less rigid environment without government-recognized qualifications. Family problems, personal issues, and bullying are cited as primary causes of absenteeism. The article also touches on the long-term consequences of school dropout, including the risk of social withdrawal and a high number of student suicides. Critics argue that the lack of recognition of student diversity in the Japanese educational system is a violation of human rights.