As the UK government pushes toward a ban on disposable vapes and plans to significantly hike taxes on vaping products, a new survey commissioned by Evapo has illuminated potential unintended consequences. The results reveal a worrying trend among disposable vape users, prompting a closer look at the implications for public health and smoking cessation efforts.
Key concerns raised by vapers
The recent survey indicates that more than a 61% of disposable vape users are considering turning to illicit products following the planned single-use vape ban. This alarming statistic aligns with a broader narrative surrounding vaping regulations and the risk they pose to smokers seeking to transition away from cigarettes. The desire for cheaper alternatives is palpable, with nearly 30% of respondents suggesting that rising costs could lead them back to traditional smoking. Meanwhile, 27% expressed intentions to find counterfeit or untaxed products as a means to avoid increased expenses.
Notably, 44% of respondents fear that these tax hikes could not only drive vapers back to smoking but could also deter current smokers from attempting to quit. This sentiment resonates with the overarching goal of reducing smoking rates in the UK, which could be jeopardized if vapers opt for less regulated options.
The success of vaping in smoking cessation
Despite the concerns raised, there is compelling evidence in the survey that vaping has played a crucial role in helping smokers quit. A resounding 67% of disposable vape users claimed that these products aided them in completely quitting smoking. Moreover, an impressive 93% of all vapers surveyed indicated that vaping contributed positively to their cessation efforts. This data underlines the effectiveness of vaping as a smoking alternative, and the potential public health setbacks posed by heavy restrictions and increased costs.
In a compelling survey insight, 27% of vapers indicated a plan to stockpile their supplies ahead of the ban. This behaviour not only reflects a clear demand but also foreshadows a potential shift toward underground markets, mirroring international trends seen in countries like Australia and the United States where bans and taxation have resulted in illicit sales spikes.
International experiences with vaping regulations
A closer examination of global patterns reveals that heavy regulations often lead to adverse outcomes. In Australia, severe limitations imposed on nicotine vapes resulted in a significant uptick in illicit sales, making these products readily available both online and in local shops. Similarly, in the United States, a patchwork of state-level bans has driven consumers toward illegal and counterfeit vaping products, which frequently pose severe health risks.
These international experiences serve as cautionary tales for the UK, suggesting that stringent limitations on vaping without supportive measures for safe access could backfire, possibly increasing smoking rates and illicit market activities.
Call for balanced regulations
Andrej Kuttruf, CEO of Evapo, emphasizes the need for balanced regulations that support responsible adult vaping while ensuring access to safer alternatives. "These findings highlight a very real unintended consequence," he stated, underscoring the potential public health risks tied to the ban and tax increases. Kuttruf advocates for education and well-structured policies that mitigate the adverse effects on smoking cessation, rather than resulting in a resurgence of traditional smoking.
As vaping prices are projected to surge by 60–75% due to the new e-liquid taxes expected in October 2026, industry stakeholders are urging the government to consider the ramifications of unregulated alternatives.
The implications of the Evapo survey are clear: a disposable vape ban, coupled with significant tax increases, threatens to reverse hard-won gains in public health efforts aimed at reducing smoking rates. By fostering an environment that supports responsible vaping while tackling the underlying issues leading to illicit market growth, the UK can maintain progress in its fight against smoking. It is crucial that both lawmakers and consumers engage in thoughtful discussions about the future of vaping and smoking cessation in the UK.