A new tax on vaping products has officially come into force, marking a government effort to make e-cigarettes less affordable and reduce their appeal to children and young people. Under the new regulations, the Vaping Product Duty is set at £2.20 per 10ml of e-liquid. The levy applies to all vaping products, regardless of whether they contain nicotine. As more evidence of its adverse effect on health comes out, particularly on children and young people, the government wants to reduce the appeal of vapes by making them more expensive. I don’t know how many people it’ll actually deter,” she said.
Consumers may not experience an immediate price surge, as retailers have been granted a six-month window to clear existing inventory at pre-duty prices. Alongside the vaping tax, tobacco duties were also increased on Thursday, rising by £2.20 per 100 cigarettes or 50g of tobacco. Officials at HMRC stated that this dual approach maintains a financial incentive for current smokers to transition toward vaping. However, many customers will not see a jump in prices immediately, as sellers have six months to sell old stock at the pre-duty price.
The government is also introducing a tracking stamp for all vaping products to combat the illicit trade that has become increasingly prevalent on UK high streets. By April, all vapes sold across the country will be required to display this stamp to ensure traceability throughout the supply chain. This regulatory tightening follows recent announcements granting local councils new powers to manage the growth of high street vape shops, with future outlets now required to obtain council permission to open. Or vapes, would need to apply to their local council for permission to open, changes to planning law in England mean every new shop selling e-cigarettes.
Health Minister Karin Smyth described the measures as a significant step in addressing youth vaping by limiting product affordability. She noted that this policy aligns with ongoing efforts to restrict the appeal and availability of such goods. Financial Secretary to the Treasury, James Murray, added that the government intends to support retailers who adhere to these new rules.
Industry response to the tax has been mixed. Jordan Apap, a sales assistant at Berkshire Vapers, warned that the policy could place significant strain on legitimate, specialized shops that offer expert advice compared to general convenience stores. He expressed concern that there is a genuine risk these businesses might struggle to remain viable within one or two years.
Public opinion among consumers varies as well. Nineteen-year-old vaper Mackenzie Bird, who has used the products for three years, stated she was fine with the duty and that it would not change her habits. Conversely, others like Cara Lewis-Rimes and Dylan Killner noted they might reconsider their usage. Cara suggested the financial pressure of the cost of living combined with the tax might force vapers to cut back, while Dylan admitted he might be prompted to quit entirely, citing concerns over both price and health impacts. Mackenzie Bird, 19, has been a regular vaper for three years. I don’t think it’s doing me any favours… the health factor around it as well is not great.
