New Vaping Legislation Isn’t All Bad, Say Industry Reps

The Labour Party introduced their finalised plans for the new tobacco and vapes bill at the beginning of November 2024. The bill outlined plans to further classify vaping in the same category as smoking. It will see the UK facing a massive tax hike on vape products, a licensing scheme introduced for the sale of vapes, and change vape packaging to be more in line with other tobacco products.

What’s the Problem with the New Tobacco and Vapes Bill?

Although the overall aim of the new legislation is to reduce nicotine dependence in Great Britain until we have a smoke-free generation, the bill has come under fire from vape industry representatives, who say there is a high chance that increased prices and black and white packaging could force some ex-smokers back to cigarettes. In terms of smoking cessation, the combination of the tax hike and a separate ban on disposable vape devices could be detrimental.

On the flip side, there are those out there who welcome parts of the new legislation as much-needed solutions.

The Sunny Side of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill

The particulars of the new Tobacco and Vapes Bill may have upset some, but for others it brings welcome news.

A prime example of this is the new licensing scheme which will be introduced to regulate suppliers of vape devices and vape juices across the country. The UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA) are in full support of this. In fact, no less than a year ago they were presenting their own version of how a licensing scheme might work only for their thoughts to fall on the deaf ears of the Tory government.

The Trading Standards organisation is also a prime candidate for welcoming this change. They have had their hands full up and down England trying to keep up with the influx of illegal vape devices. Unfortunately, the disposable vape ban will only increase their workload as the expected increase in illegal goods will unfold.

Cancer Research UK support the scheme since it will help to clamp down on illicit sales. Cancer Research UK are altogether in support of vaping as a harm reduction method alternative to smoking. Although they maintain it is not risk-free, they support vaping in general for the good it has done converting smokers.

Other parts of the bill were also welcomed. Action Against Smoking For Health are in full support of the government’s commitment to raise the age you can purchase cigarettes at until the sale of tobacco goods are phased out entirely.

Advice for Vape Device Users

Here in the UK, the rules might be changing. However, you are still far safer to buy vape juices, vape devices, disposable vape devices, and all other vape related products through established retailers such as Vape Direct. The second you start buying illicit vapes is the second you will put your health in real danger. Stock up while you can.