New vape tax comes into effect in bid to deter young people and non-smokers
A new £2.20 per 10ml vaping duty takes effect in the UK to discourage youth vaping, alongside higher tobacco duties and duty stamps.Summary
The UK has introduced a new vaping products duty of £2.20 per 10ml of e-liquid, regardless of nicotine content, payable by manufacturers, importers and warehouse keepers approved by HMRC. Operators may pass the cost to retailers and consumers. HMRC also launched the Vaping Duty Stamps Scheme for supply chain traceability and consumer protection, with a six-month grace period before all vaping products must carry a valid stamp from April 1. Tobacco duty rates increased by £2.20 per 100 cigarettes or 50g of tobacco to maintain the incentive for smokers to switch to vaping. From October 1, travellers arriving in Great Britain can bring up to 50ml of vaping liquid for personal use duty-free; larger amounts must be declared and fully taxed. Treasury Financial Secretary James Murray said the measures will help remove illicit vapes from high streets and support compliant retailers. Health minister Karin Smyth stated that while vaping is less harmful than smoking and can help adults quit, children and non-smokers should never vape, and the measures aim to tackle youth vaping by reducing affordability. UK Vaping Industry Association director general John Dunne warned the duty rate is a "public health time bomb" that could push adults back to smoking and burden the NHS, urging the government to protect vaping as a quit-smoking tool.
(Source：ITV News)
