Two major UK law changes affecting vapers will come into force from October 2026, significantly impacting the purchase and distribution of vaping products. The Government is introducing a Vaping Products Duty (VPD) and banning the sale of vapes through vending machines and free distribution under the Tobacco and Vapes Act.
Vaping Products Duty Details
The VPD, first announced in the 2024 Spring Budget and confirmed in the Autumn 2024 Budget, takes effect on October 1, 2026. It will be set at £2.20 per 10ml of vaping liquid, charged at a flat rate regardless of nicotine content. The duty applies to both imported and domestically produced vaping products.
The government stated it is "committed to reducing the affordability and appeal of vaping products, particularly among young people and non-smokers, while maintaining the financial incentive for smokers to switch to less harmful alternatives."
Bans on Vending Machine Sales and Free Distribution
From October 29, 2026, the Government will ban the sale of vapes from vending machines and the free distribution of vapes. These measures are part of the Tobacco and Vapes Act, aimed at curbing youth vaping.
Professor Steve Turner, President of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, said: "The Tobacco and Vapes Bill has the exact type of bold ambition and long‑term thinking that makes meaningful change for children and young people. This will help to improve child health outcomes and narrow the unacceptable health inequalities gap."
He added: "Paediatricians are thrilled to have supported this important piece of legislation, which will reduce the unacceptable burden that tobacco and vaping places on today’s youth, and also protect future generations from the harms of nicotine addiction. I celebrate this landmark moment for child health."
Public Health and Mental Health Impacts
Mark Rowland, Co-Chair of the Mental Health and Smoking Partnership and Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation, commented: "The Tobacco and Vapes Act is a public health triumph that will protect the mental health of so many, particularly young people, who would have otherwise experienced the devastating mental and physical consequences of smoking."
He noted: "The idea that smoking reduces stress is a myth - instead, it is linked with a higher risk of anxiety or depression, and worsens psychiatric symptoms for those with existing mental health problems. Meanwhile, quitting smoking has been shown to be at least as effective as anti-depressants."
Rowland urged: "The government must be commended for passing this bill in the face of sustained opposition from those who would seek to profit from smoking. Now, if we are to reduce the 15 to 20 year mortality gap for people with mental illness, more focus must be put on supporting people to quit."
Additional Proposals to Curb Youth Vaping
Last week, the Government also unveiled a UK-wide consultation to stop vapes being marketed to children. Proposals include introducing plain white packaging for vapes and nicotine products, and keeping vapes out of sight in shops.
