ITV Report: Proliferation of Illegal E-Cigarettes in the UK

Oct.08.2024
ITV Report: Proliferation of Illegal E-Cigarettes in the UK
Illegal e-cigarettes flood UK streets with products claiming up to 9000 puffs and incorrect health warnings, experts urge action.

According to a report by ITV on October 7th, illegal e-cigarettes are widespread in the UK. Reporters found some illegal e-cigarette products on the streets, including devices claiming to hold up to 9000 puffs and e-cigarette devices with incorrect health warning labels. Experts point out that devices with high puff counts likely contain e-liquid capacities far exceeding the regulated 2 milliliters.


According to the latest data from the UK Freedom of Information (FOI), nearly 400,000 illegal e-cigarette devices have been seized in the past two years. Industry experts say that more action is needed.


In addition, by analyzing Freedom of Information (FOI) data, the UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA) found:


Since 2022, approximately 387,000 illegal e-cigarettes have been seized; total fines collected for selling these products amount to less than £11,000 (£10,730); city councils have visited around 1,800 (1,867) shops suspected of selling illegal e-cigarettes, but advocates believe this is far from sufficient. Official data shows that 12% of UK adults use e-cigarettes. The government has stated that they are seeking additional enforcement funds in the next budget. These findings indicate that there are enforcement issues with existing regulations.


We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.

Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn


Notice

1.  This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.

2.  The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

3.  This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.

4.  Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.

 

Copyright

 

This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.

For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com

 

AI Assistance Disclaimer

 

This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.

We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com

NACS Urges USTR to Address Illegal E-Cigarette Exports in China Trade Engagements
NACS Urges USTR to Address Illegal E-Cigarette Exports in China Trade Engagements
NACS submitted a comment letter to USTR in a proceeding examining unfair trade practices worldwide. The letter focuses on illicit nicotine products made in China and shipped to the United States in violation of U.S. law. NACS said the U.S. electronic nicotine delivery systems market has become dominated by illicit products, mainly disposable e-cigarettes manufactured in China and sold without the marketing authorization required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Apr.16 by 2FIRSTS.ai
OLAF and Customs Authorities From 30 Countries Seize More Than 94 Million Illicit Vape and Heated Tobacco Items
OLAF and Customs Authorities From 30 Countries Seize More Than 94 Million Illicit Vape and Heated Tobacco Items
The European Anti-Fraud Office said on April 17 that its “JCO VAPE” operation, carried out together with customs authorities from 30 countries, successfully targeted the illicit trade in e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. The operation, conducted from November 14 to December 15, 2025, resulted in seizures of more than 94 million items and more than 2,500 kg/l of tobacco products, e-cigarettes, devices, and related goods.
Apr.20 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Bulgaria’s Disposable Vape Ban Receives Formal Approval From the European Commission
Bulgaria’s Disposable Vape Ban Receives Formal Approval From the European Commission
The European Commission has formally published its decision approving Bulgarian legislation banning the placing on the market, offering and sale of disposable e-cigarettes.
Mar.17 by 2FIRSTS.ai
West Virginia Governor Signs Bill Directing USD 2.9 Million From Juul Settlement to Youth Tobacco Prevention
West Virginia Governor Signs Bill Directing USD 2.9 Million From Juul Settlement to Youth Tobacco Prevention
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network said West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey has signed House Bill 5691 into law, directing USD 2.9 million from the Juul settlement to youth tobacco prevention and programs that help people quit. The bill is a supplemental appropriation measure, and the Legislature’s bill history shows it passed the House on March 11, passed the Senate on March 13 and was sent to the governor on March 18.
Mar.20 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Cambodia Moves to Draft New Tobacco Control Strategy Targeting Illicit Products and E-Cigarette Spread
Cambodia Moves to Draft New Tobacco Control Strategy Targeting Illicit Products and E-Cigarette Spread
Cambodian Health Minister Cheang Ra has called for the development of a tobacco control strategy for 2027–2031, with the goal of reducing tobacco use by 30% by 2030. The directive was issued during a Tobacco Product Control Committee meeting in Phnom Penh. Priority areas include reducing tobacco use, protecting the public from secondhand smoke, tackling illegal and counterfeit tobacco products, and preventing the spread of e-cigarettes.
Apr.29 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Japan Tobacco Releases Three Ploom AURA Collaboration Panels Inspired by “Sake”
Japan Tobacco Releases Three Ploom AURA Collaboration Panels Inspired by “Sake”
Japan Tobacco announced that it will sponsor “CRAFT SAKE WEEK 2026,” to be held at Roppongi Hills Arena, and set up a dedicated smoking area called “Ploom LOUNGE.” Three Ploom AURA collaboration front panels inspired by the theme of “sake” will be offered at the venue, along with trial use, sales, and related original content.
Apr.13 by 2FIRSTS.ai