With the disposable vape ban now exactly a month away, supplier Elfbar has asked that the Government enforce the new rules in the strongest, most unified way possible.
It is hoped such a targeted approach will avoid the unintended consequences of fuelling the illicit market and jeopardising the UK’s smokefree 2030 ambition.
The brand has written to the Government to raise its concerns, asking for both robust enforcement and coordinated public messaging.
The concern is underscored by the National Crime Agency’s recent Operation Machinize, highlighting the link between illicit vapes and businesses being used to hide the origins of criminal money.
It also echoes fears raised by MPs and campaigners that the upcoming ban could hand more power to organised crime groups, as seen in Australia where single-use vapes were banned last year.
The recent announcement of a £10 million funding boost for National Trading Standards and the recruitment of 80 new apprentice enforcement officers is a positive step in curbing illegal trade, the supplier says. Currently, illicit goods account for at least a third of the UK market.
Eve Peters (left), director of government affairs for Elfbar in the UK, said: “We applaud the recent multi-agency enforcement on illicit vapes and the much-needed extra funding for Trading Standards – whose critical role in tackling illicit trade is often under resource constraints.
“However, with the single-use ban fast approaching, we believe the government must urgently bring forward a dedicated enforcement strategy – backed by resources for Trading Standards and related enforcement bodies proportional to the scale of the challenge to prevent rogue retailers from selling illegal products and children accessing them.”
Elfbar also supports calls from representatives in the UK sector for a retail licensing scheme for vapes modelled on the Licensing Act of 2003 which governs alcohol sales. Such a framework would provide clear, enforceable rules for responsible retailing and help prevent illegal sales, it says.
Alongside the importance of an impact assessment following the ban, so too is raising awareness among consumers, retailers and the wider supply chain to ensure they are prepared for the changes.
“Despite the ban, the import of single-use vapes will remain legal after 1 June – a loophole likely to feed the illicit market.”
Peters added: “There remains a lack of awareness and understanding of the pending changes, particularly among consumers. To address this, a government-led campaign is needed. There are wider issues too. Despite the sales ban, the import of single-use vapes will remain legal after 1 June – a significant loophole likely to feed the illicit market.
“While ownership of the legislative changes is a matter for the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs, it would benefit from a cross-government and sector approach in the coming weeks.
“Vapes play a critical role in smoking cessation and helping the UK achieve its 2030 smokefree goal. Tackling the illegal trade is not only about protecting communities – it’s also about safeguarding public health and supporting responsible retailers.”
Read a guide to the upcoming regulations here.
No comments yet