Public health and trading standards organisations have joined forces urging retailers to prepare for the next phase of the Tobacco and Vapes Act, outlined in new government guidance on changes coming into force in coming months.
The Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI), Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), ASH Northern Ireland and ASH Wales have set out the key changes businesses need to know:
- From October 1, 2026: Introduction of the vape excise tax. Retailers will have until April 2027 to sell through existing stock, but must ensure that any products they sell after October 1 are either tax stamped or have entered the supply chain.
- From October 29, 2026:
- A minimum age of sale of 18 will apply to all consumer nicotine products, including nicotine pouches and zero-nicotine vapes.
- Vending machines selling vapes or other nicotine products will be banned.
- Free distribution of these products will also be prohibited.
- From January 1, 2027: The “smokefree generation” law will come into force, making it illegal to sell tobacco to anyone born on or after January 1, 2009. Existing customers who can legally purchase tobacco will retain that right.
The organisations say that retailers play a “critical frontline role” in complying with age-of-sale laws and wider tobacco control measures. They stressed that, in practice, most of these changes build on existing age verification procedures already widely used across the retail sector.
The updated legislation has also clarified that heated tobacco products are subject to the same restrictions on display and promotion as other tobacco products. Retailers who have not yet updated displays or removed advertising are urged to do so.
They encourage retailers to review the full government guidance, brief their staff and ensure they are ready ahead of the upcoming deadlines.
John Herriman, chief executive of the Chartered Trading Standards Institute, says: “Responsible retailers play a vital role in protecting children and supporting fair trading. The overwhelming majority already have strong age verification procedures in place, and these new requirements build on those existing systems rather than creating a significant new burden. Trading Standards will continue to support businesses with clear advice and proportionate enforcement, while taking robust action against those who deliberately flout the law.”
Suzanne Cass, chief executive of Action on Smoking and Health Wales, adds: “Retailers have an essential part to play in making these changes a success. By applying the new rules consistently and reporting illegal sales where they occur, responsible businesses help protect their communities and create a level playing field for those who comply with the law. We encourage retailers across Wales and the rest of the UK to make use of the guidance and support available ahead of implementation.”
