CTSI Urges Stronger Action Against UK's Noncompliant Vapes

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.