UAE tax on vapes aims to deter young smokers and low-cost products
A new UAE tax on vape liquids aims to deter young people and encourage users to quit.Summary
The UAE is implementing a minimum excise price of Dh1 per millilitre for e-cigarette liquids starting September 1, a move intended to deter young people from starting to vape and encourage current users to reduce their consumption. Experts, including Dr. Rachel Kaminski, argue that pricing can effectively show vaping is not a safe alternative to smoking. The tax is expected to influence new users and lower-income groups, and some vapers, like Vinita Kullai, are already considering quitting due to the cost. Retailers, however, warn that a large price gap between legitimate and counterfeit products could drive consumers to the grey market. The policy aligns with global trends, such as the UK's dedicated vape duty and Australia's ban on recreational sales, where governments are tightening regulations on e-cigarettes to protect public health.
(Source：The National)
