How the Governments Vape Tax effects you and our thoughts.
A vape liquid tax has been announced by the UK Government, and will come into place on 1st October 2026.
What does it mean?
At The Electronic Cigarette Company we understand the announcement of the Governments Vape Tax is worrying.
The tax is expected to begin on 1st October 2026. It will specifically raise the cost of e-liquid by £2.20 per 10ml.
Additionally, to coincide with the tax the Government will also introduce a one-off increase in tobacco duty with the aim to maintain the rise in smokers switching to vaping.
This relative increase in tobacco duty is something we support, and hope the vape tax specifically doesn’t deter smokers from making vital changes to their health.
For insight, 15 other countries in Europe operate similar schemes, including Germany. In July 2022 Germany introduced a €1.60 (£1.37) tax charged on every 10ml of vape liquid.
Why has the Government Introduced the Tax?
The Government aim to discourage non smokers and young people from taking up vaping. Whilst also deterring smokers from sticking with the habit.
Over the years we have been appalled by unscrupulous retailers making vaping products available illegally to children. We therefore applaud any effort to further stamp out this illegal practice. But not at the cost of current adult smokers or vapers, and hope the tax doesn’t deter people from picking up a safer alternative.
Our Thoughts
From The Electronic Cigarette Company’s perspective, we provide products that allow conventional smokers to make significant changes to their health.
Since our beginning TECC has encouraged people to make the switch from cigarettes to vaping. We understand how the tax will deter children from maintaining or picking up the habit, as well as non-smokers. However the devil is in the detail, and we must ensure there are no unintended consequences. Such as a rise in the illicit trade of vapes and cigarettes.
Specifically, we praise the Government’s promise to fund HMRC to crack down on illegal products that enter the market, which will further protect consumer health, and stop the circulation of dangerous products.
What Happens Next?
For now, nothing will change. This announcement is simply the Government stating its intention to bring a tax on vape liquid on 1st October 2026.
You will find the latest updates on this tax right here on our TECC blog as more details emerge.
