The UK government will unveil tough new penalties for illegal vape sales in Wednesday’s (November 26) budget, including fines of up to £10,000 and possible prison sentences, as part of a major crackdown. All vapes will soon carry digital tax stamps with QR codes, giving His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs and Border Force wider powers to seize unlicensed products.

The measures respond to rapid growth in vaping and rising concerns about black‑market devices. They will sit alongside the Tobacco and Vapes Bill’s new limits on advertising, flavours and packaging. Officials say the package is designed to disrupt criminal networks and protect consumers from unregulated goods.

Health organisations, Trading Standards and industry representatives have welcomed the proposals, arguing that stronger enforcement will curb youth access while supporting legitimate businesses and smokers using vapes to quit.

This article was adapted from an original report published on tobaccoreporter.com. All rights belong to the original publisher.