CTSI Urges Stronger Action Against UK's Noncompliant Vapes

Mar.14.2023
CTSI Urges Stronger Action Against UK's Noncompliant Vapes
The CTSI urges stronger action against noncompliant e-cigarettes in the UK, including batch identification and youth prevention measures.

The Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) has called for stronger action to be taken against non-compliant electronic cigarette products in the UK.


The CTSI has stated that non-compliant electronic cigarettes have become "out of control" and is calling on the government to provide clearer guidance and more resources to combat non-compliant trade.


The CTSI recommends that manufacturers disclose the lot numbers of non-compliant products and implement restrictions to prevent teenagers from using e-cigarettes, including banning cartoon characters or light-up e-cigarettes, limiting packaging colors, and prohibiting advertising on social media platforms like TikTok. The organization also suggests reviewing the positioning of products in stores and increasing sanctions against producers, suppliers, and retailers who do not comply with the law.


Representatives from the electronic cigarette industry have expressed their appreciation for the stance taken by the CTSI. The UK Electronic Cigarette Industry Association stated in a press release that "we share the concerns of the CTSI regarding the growth in illegal and underage use of electronic cigarette products and fully support their efforts to provide further resources to strengthen regulation and enforcement.


The UK e-cigarette industry association is taking the lead in forming a youth contact prevention task force, developing a detailed plan to address this issue, including:


Retailers caught selling or illegally distributing products to minors will receive an immediate fine of up to £10,000 (approximately 83,400 yuan).


The national retail registration system requires only stores that meet eligibility standards to legally sell electronic cigarettes.


3. A nationwide testing procurement plan will be implemented to ensure continuous monitoring of retailers selling electronic cigarettes, thereby preventing them from turning a blind eye to sales involving minors.


The key to the success of the proposal is to enhance law enforcement, which requires substantial resources.


The CTSI has acknowledged that it is unfortunate that resources are lacking and that the government needs to intervene and treat this as an urgent matter. The suggestion from the UK Vaping Industry Association aims to support this need for funding, as fines and registration schemes would raise funds.


The UK Electronic Cigarette Industry Association will submit proposals to the government and MPs at the end of March.


Reference/bibliography:


There is a growing demand for authorities to take action against noncompliant e-cigarettes in the United Kingdom.


The UKVIA has issued a response to the concerns raised by CTSI regarding the sale of illegal vape products.


The CTSI (Chartered Trading Standards Institute) has released a statement addressing the current issues surrounding the sale of vapes in the UK.


This document has been generated through artificial intelligence translation and is provided solely for the purposes of industry discourse and learning. Please note that the intellectual property rights of the content belong to the original media source or author. Owing to certain limitations in the translation process, there may be discrepancies between the translated text and the original content. We recommend referring to the original source for complete accuracy. In case of any inaccuracies, we invite you to reach out to us with corrections. If you believe any content has infringed upon your rights, please contact us immediately for its removal.

Ireland’s HSE finds over a fifth of vape shops tested still selling to children despite under-18 ban
Ireland’s HSE finds over a fifth of vape shops tested still selling to children despite under-18 ban
Ireland’s Health Service Executive (HSE) data show that more than a fifth of vape shops tested were still selling nicotine-inhaling vaping products to children, despite a ban on sales to under-18s that took effect on December 22, 2023.
Jan.05 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Thai police arrest 23-year-old woman linked to major vape-smuggling network in the South
Thai police arrest 23-year-old woman linked to major vape-smuggling network in the South
Thai police said officers expanded an investigation into a major e-cigarette smuggling network in the South and arrested a 23-year-old woman at Hat Yai Junction railway station on Jan. 6, 2026.
Jan.08 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Netherlands plans to raise nicotine purchase age to 21, including vapes
Netherlands plans to raise nicotine purchase age to 21, including vapes
The Netherlands is planning to raise the legal age for buying nicotine-containing products from 18 to 21, a change that would also cover vapes. The move, embedded in the governing coalition’s latest agreement, aligns with a wider European trend toward tighter youth nicotine controls, though industry groups have criticised the proposal and warned it could fuel illicit trade.
Feb.09 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Vietnam Decree 371: vaping and heated tobacco use fined up to $190
Vietnam Decree 371: vaping and heated tobacco use fined up to $190
Vietnam’s Government Decree 371, effective December 31, 2025, stipulates that users of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products will be fined VND 3–5 million (about $114–$190) and required to destroy the products. The decree also provides that individuals who allow use at premises they own or manage will be fined VND 5–10 million (about $190–$380), with fines doubled for organizations.
Jan.04 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Product | Lost Vape launches “4D portable shisha” device with 3,800mAh battery and up to 80W output
Product | Lost Vape launches “4D portable shisha” device with 3,800mAh battery and up to 80W output
E-cigarette brand Lost Vape has recently listed its open-system DTL device, the ASTARA, on its official website. The company markets the product as “The First 4D Portable Shisha Experience,” highlighting a 360-degree display and audio features. The ASTARA has also appeared on some online sales channels in markets including the UK and Germany.
Feb.03 by 2FIRSTS.ai
IQOS UK unveils 2026 pop-up events plan, first stops set for London and three other cities
IQOS UK unveils 2026 pop-up events plan, first stops set for London and three other cities
IQOS’ UK website shows the company will roll out time-limited pop-up experience spaces across Britain in 2026 for adult consumers. The first confirmed locations are London, the West Midlands area near Birmingham, Manchester and Romford, offering product demonstrations, pop-up-only promotions and nicotine pouch sampling. Entry will be restricted to those aged 18 and over, with “Challenge 25” ID checks in place.
Feb.03 by 2FIRSTS.ai