Washington’s 95% Vape Tax Drives Sales to Idaho

A new 95% tax on nicotine products, including vapes and pouches, has taken effect in Washington state, causing prices to nearly double and driving cost-conscious consumers across the border into Idaho. The tax, which now subjects these items to the same rate as cigarettes, has sparked a surge in business for Idaho smoke shops while hurting their Washington counterparts.

Managers at Idaho stores near the state line, such as A1 Smoke Shop and Liberty Stop-N-Go, report a noticeable increase in customers seeking cheaper alternatives. “There’s been an increase on customers coming in to get products that are taxed higher,” noted Ngewakl Sakuma, manager of A1 Smoke Shop. He added that some customers are driving from as far as Wenatchee to avoid the steep Washington prices.

For consumers like Jeff Long from Liberty Lake, the choice is simple: pay double or make the drive. “Basically, you’re gonna end up paying double… So you either do that or stop doing it. And this is close,” Long explained. Idaho retailers anticipated this shift and stocked up on inventory. Joni Hepler of Liberty Stop-N-Go recounted a customer buying 15 rolls of product in fear of price hikes, emphasizing that Idaho prices remain significantly lower. While Idaho businesses enjoy a “revolving door” of customers, Washington smoke shops are facing a significant loss in sales due to the new tax policy.

• Read more: Washington State Considers Tobacco Tax Hike to Address Budget Shortfall
• News source: Washington’s 95% nicotine tax drives customers across state lines to Idaho | News | kxly.com

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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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