UK Bans Vape and Nicotine Pouch Sales to Under-18s

The UK government has announced that selling zero-nicotine vapes and nicotine pouches to anyone under 18 will become a criminal offense starting October 29. This update closes existing loopholes by extending age restrictions to next-generation nicotine products that previously escaped regulation.

Expanding Age Restrictions to Next-Gen Products

In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the new law replaces rules that only covered nicotine-containing vapes. While Scotland already restricted non-nicotine vapes, the October 29 update standardizes the ban on all nicotine products, including pouches, across the entire UK.

Retailers must verify that customers are at least 18 years old before completing a sale. Failure to do so can lead to prosecution or fixed penalty notices, though businesses have a defense if they prove they took all reasonable steps to verify age.

Proxy Purchasing and Free Distribution Bans

The law also targets adults who buy vaping or nicotine products for minors. This practice, known as proxy purchasing, will carry criminal penalties. Additionally, companies cannot distribute free vapes, nicotine pouches, coupons, or branded accessories like chargers to the public.

New Limits on Vaping Discounts and Fines

Under the new rules, businesses are prohibited from offering promotional discounts that lower a product’s cost below its standard retail price. However, normal business practices, such as clearance sales for unsold stock and bulk trade discounts, remain legal.

Violating the rules on free distribution or promotional discounting carries a £200 fixed penalty notice in England, Wales, and Scotland. In Northern Ireland, the proposed penalty is £250, pending approval by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

Read more: UK Vape Businesses Warned to Register for New Duty by July Deadline

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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.