New UK laws coming into force in 2026 will make it more expensive to smoke and vape
Summary
The UK government is introducing new laws in 2026 to increase the cost of vaping and smoking in an effort to reduce their prevalence, particularly among young people. A Vaping Products Duty (VPD) of £2.20 per 10ml of vaping liquid will be implemented from October 1st, regardless of nicotine content or origin of production. Simultaneously, Tobacco Duty will be increased by the Retail Price Index (RPI) plus two percent, with an additional £2.20 per 100 cigarettes or 50g of tobacco. The government aims to ensure smoking remains more expensive than vaping, while still incentivizing smokers to switch to less harmful alternatives. These changes follow a ban on single-use vapes, targeting the rise in vaping among school children.
(Source:Manchester Evening News)