Ukraine Bans “Self-Mix” Vape Liquids to Curb Black Market
Ukraine has enacted a new law on the prevention and control of industrial pollution that includes provisions to ban so-called “self-mixes” – mixtures used to prepare e-liquids for vapes. This move aims to close a significant loophole in the country’s existing regulations.
Since July 2024, the production, import, and sale of flavored vapes have been formally banned in Ukraine. However, in practice, the market has continued to grow, with a shadow economy for e-cigarette liquids estimated to be costing the state up to 5 billion hryvnias annually in lost revenue. A common scheme involved selling a legal ingredient while providing the remaining components of a flavored e-liquid as a “gift” or “constructor kit.”
The new law explicitly closes this loophole by prohibiting the free distribution of nicotine or vape liquids, either separately or in kits. Violations will incur a fine of 200% of the product’s value, with a minimum penalty of 24,000 hryvnias. While not as severe as Singapore’s recent measures equating certain vape additives with narcotics, it’s hoped this will begin to shut down illicit vape shops catering to minors. Additionally, from January 1, 2026, e-liquids will require electronic tax stamps (DataMatrix codes).
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