Trading Standards welcomes closure of loopholes as new tobacco and vape laws come into force | Chartered Trading Standards Institute
New UK laws close loopholes by banning sales of all vaping and nicotine products, including non-nicotine vapes and nicotine pouches, to under-18s.Summary
The Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) welcomed the next phase of the Tobacco and Vapes Act, which came into force on 29 October 2026, closing long-standing loopholes. From that date, it is an offence across the UK to sell any vaping or nicotine product to anyone under 18. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, this now includes non-nicotine vapes and nicotine products such as nicotine pouches for the first time. The changes also make it an offence for adults to buy these products on behalf of under-18s, ban vending machines selling such products, prohibit free distribution and substantial discounts that promote them, and introduce fixed penalty notices for enforcement authorities. CTSI Chief Executive John Herriman said the changes close loopholes Trading Standards has raised concerns about for years, while Kate Pike, CTSI Lead Officer for Tobacco and Vapes, noted that regulations, penalties and investment in new officers through the apprenticeship scheme are now in place. Retailers are urged to verify age, review guidance, brief staff and report illegal sales to local Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline.
(Source：Wired Gov)
