UK HMRC to Implement New E-cigarette Tax System Digitally

According to a report by Public Technology on March 19th, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) in the UK stated that they will be implementing a new e-cigarette tax system through mandatory digital channels.

In a recent announcement during the Spring budget, Finance Minister Jeremy Hunt declared that e-cigarettes will be subject to a consumer tax, similar to tobacco and alcohol products. Currently, e-cigarette products are only subject to the standard value added tax rate of 20% and are not included in the consumer tax.

In the consultation document on the new tax scheme, HMRC stated that their operations are based on 'digital by default', which will require all businesses within the scope of their obligations to register, report, and pay online through digital channels, with exceptions for those excluded due to protected characteristics. The mandatory use of online channels will help ensure compliance, minimize errors, and reduce fraudulent activities.

The document revealed that once the new tax comes into effect in October 2026, it will mean that "UK manufacturers obligated to pay taxes will have to register with HMRC, report information on the goods they have produced, and pay their taxes through monthly returns.

The tax agency stated that the measure will provide support and clear guidance to businesses before implementation. "Digital services for registration will also be launched in a timely manner so that businesses can prepare for the introduction of tariffs. We expect the registration system to be similar to the existing consumption tax system.