Quebec Illegal Vape Market Soars After Flavor Ban: Study

Two years after Quebec implemented a comprehensive flavor ban on vaping products, a new study reveals that the illegal market has surged, with 80% of vaping products now being non-compliant. The research by the Institut national de santé publique du Québec (INSPQ) shows the use of prohibited flavors climbed from 67% in September 2024 to 80% in June 2025, an increase of nearly 20% in just ten months. This highlights the failure of the current provincial measures to control the market and protect youth.

Eric Gagnon, Vice-President of Corporate and Regulatory Affairs at Imperial Tobacco Canada, stated, “Since the flavour ban, we’ve seen a dramatic rise in the illegal market in Quebec. This situation undermines public health goals and shows that regulation without a robust enforcement plan is not enough.” He urged organizations like the Quebec Coalition for Tobacco Control (CQCT), which advocated for the ban, to now focus on promoting strict enforcement against the booming illegal trade.

While commending recent enforcement actions, such as a Sûreté du Québec seizure of over 50,000 illegal flavored vaping devices, Imperial Tobacco believes more is needed. Gagnon concluded, “Quebec is giving us a clear warning: without rigorous enforcement, even the best regulatory intentions fail.” The company is calling for a united effort from all stakeholders to curb the proliferation of illegal vaping products, arguing that a smoke-free Canada is only possible if public health goals are matched by a firm commitment to enforce the law.

• News source: 80% of Vaping Products in Quebec Are Now Illegal: Imperial Tobacco Canada Calls for Urgent Government Action

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Matthew Ma

Marketing at Ecigator

With over a decade of experience in the e-cigarette industry, Matthew Ma is a seasoned expert in both the manufacturing and usage aspects of vaping products. His extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of the intricacies and evolving dynamics of e-cigarettes.

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