The cost of vapes are set to rise from 1st October 2026
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The UK Government is set to introduce a brand new Vaping Products Duty. It was first announced as part of the Spring 2024 budget, and is set to come into place on 1st October 2026.
The UK Vape tax will spike prices of all products that contain vape juice, such as prefilled pods, big puff vapes, and e-liquids.
In this guide, we will discuss what the vape tax means for you, why the Government have introduced it, and how it will affect your monthly and weekly vaping costs.
What is the vaping products duty?
The UK Vape tax, is a duty that will be applied to all products that contain e-liquid. It is a flat rate that will be added on top of the retail price.
Every 1ml of e-liquid will face a £0.22p tax + VAT, whether they contain nicotine or not (1).
Affected products include, prefilled pods/kits, and all e-liquids sold in the UK.
In addition, a new Vaping Duty Stamp will be attached to all packaging to prove the tax has been paid.
How will the UK Vape Tax Affect Prices?
Unfortunately, the Vape Tax will drastically affect vape prices across the board. Meaning your monthly costs will go up. As mentioned above, the duty is volume based and will cost 22p per 1ml plus VAT.
Let’s explore expected prices of some of the most popular products in the vaping market!
Average 10ml E-liquid Price
The average 10ml e-liquid bottle is priced at £3.50. With tax and VAT, you can expect an increase of 75% to £6.14.
However, this will differ depending on what e-liquids you prefer to use.
For example, ELFLIQ, ELUX nic salts, and Bar Juice 5000 are £2.99 a bottle on TECC. Inline with the tax they could rise to £5.73 per bottle.
2ml+10ml Big Puff Vape Price
The average retail price of a 2ml+10ml big puff vape kit is currently £12.99. With tax and VAT, the devices will face a 24% increase and rise to £16.16.
It’s important to highlight prices will differ depending on each product and brand.
For example, the Hayati Pro Max Plus is priced at £7.99 on TECC. With the new tax it could rise to £11.16 a device.
Standard 2ml Device Price
An average 2ml device is currently priced at £5.99. It will be hit with 44p tax and 9p VAT, for a new price of £6.52.
But how will this effect your favourite brands?
The best selling Elf Bar 600 is priced at £4.49 on TECC. With tax and VAT added the price could rise to £5.02 per kit.
2ml + 10ml Refills Price
A typical 2ml+10ml refill pack is priced at £6.99. Inline with the duty the pods will experience a 45% uplift to £10.15.
This staggering price increase means you could be paying a similar price to a kit for a refill pod.
For example, the best selling Hayati Pro Max Plus Pods are priced at £5.99 on TECC. Inline with the duty each pack could rise to £9.16 per pack.
2ml Pod Refill Price
A standard pack of prefilled pods features 2 x 2ml pods, priced at £5.99. It will see a 17% increase, to £7.05.
Let’s explore the updated prices of popular 2ml pod refills!
For example, the JUUL Pods on TECC currently stand at £6.79, and could rise to £8.05.
Whereas, the Elf Bar 600 Pods are £4.99 on TECC, and could go up to £6.05.
UK Vape TAX Timeline
The UK vape duty will not come into full effect until 1st April 2027 (2). However, there are many key dates you need to remember along the way.
Tips to Navigate UK Vape Tax
There are so many ways you can still enjoy vaping post tax without breaking the bank. Let’s explore a few practical options:
- Stuck on prefilled pods? – Switching to a refillable vape kit could be the way for you save money.
- Use quality nic salts – Premium e-liquids provide a longer lasting flavour and vaping experience, so you use less e-liquid.
- Buy Smart – Utilise multibuy deals before the tax starts to take full effect.
- Stick to Trusted Brands – Avoid cheap alternatives and stick with compliant products.
UK Vape TAX Final Thoughts
The Vape Tax will change the vaping landscape in many ways. However, it doesn’t have to ruin your vaping lifestyle. With smart choices, and the right kit you will be able to dominate the changes.
UK Vape TAX Frequently Asked Questions
Will the Vape Tax Change the Way I Vape?
Yes, the vape tax will most likely change the way all users vape. Many will transition to a more efficient and cost effective option, whereas others might cut down on use.
However, many of you will stick to normal routine as that is what works for you!
Why is the UK Government introducing a vape tax?
The Government are introducing the vape tax to reduce youth vaping rates and discourage non-smokers from vaping. Plus, the vape duty is said to be generating revenue for public health initiatives such as stop smoking.
Does the Vape Tax apply to Shortfills?
Yes, the vape tax will apply to shortfills. The duty is based on liquid volume and not nicotine strength meaning vape juice will be affected no matter the strength.
References
(1). GOV.UK. (26/11/2025). Introduction of Vaping Products Duty from 1 October 2026.
(2). GOV.UK. (12/10/2025). Prepare for Vaping Products Duty and the Vaping Duty Stamps Scheme.
