IBVTA: Disposable Ban may Cause 38% Loss on UK Retailers

According to a report by UK media outlet betterretailing on January 15th, retailers could potentially lose 38% of their e-cigarette customer base if the disposable e-cigarette ban goes into effect.

Currently, the British government is considering imposing a 25% tax on e-cigarette products, while the British e-cigarette industry is awaiting the response to the e-cigarette consultation that ended on December 6th.

The Independent British Vape Trade Association (IBVTA) has urged the government to acknowledge the significant role that e-cigarettes play in smoking cessation efforts. According to the IBVTA, excessive restrictions on e-cigarette products could jeopardize the progress towards the smoke-free 2030 target. They have highlighted that if half of all adult smokers in England were to switch to e-cigarettes instead of traditional cigarettes, nearly £500 million could be saved annually.

Marcus Saxton, Chairman of the IBVTA, voiced concerns that the government's excessive restrictive measures, such as banning disposable e-cigarettes and flavors, could potentially fuel consumer demand for tobacco products. He urged the government to consider implementing appropriate regulatory systems in order to prevent the rise of illegal and unregulated products while also safeguarding those who seek to quit smoking through the use of e-cigarettes.

Saxton stated that "now is not the time for excessive punishment and regulation of the legitimate e-cigarette industry, as this would benefit those marketing illegal and unregulated products, while posing significant risks to those looking to quit smoking." He emphasized that the association is willing to collaborate with the government to establish appropriate regulatory measures that will ensure the steady growth of the e-cigarette industry."