Read articles from United Kingdom

November 24, 2025 by thesun.co.uk

Annual tobacco tax hikes are set to continue, potentially raising the price of a 20-pack of cigarettes to £17.66. The government aims to discourage smoking through these increases. The cost of rolling tobacco is also expected to rise significantly. Despite price hikes over the years, smoking rates in the UK have declined due to increased awareness of health risks, with a target to become "smoke free" by 2030. Concerns exist over these tax hikes disproportionately affecting low-income smokers and potentially fueling illicit trade. Additionally, new taxes on vaping products may hinder smoking cessation efforts. The Budget may also include tax increases for bookies and the elimination of a fuel duty cut.

November 18, 2025 by talkingretail.com

The UK experiences a decline in smoking, particularly in combustible products like cigarettes and rolling tobacco, with sales down 36%. Vape liquids are seeing growth, but value sales in convenience stores have decreased by 25%. Nicotine pouches are gaining popularity as smokers switch to alternatives, with convenience stores leading sales. Sales of disposable vapes have been banned, leading to an increase in reusable vapes causing disposal issues. Cigars and cigarillos are growing, with cigarillos dominating the market. The proposed generational ban on tobacco sales is predicted to increase illicit trade. Retailers are advised to diversify product offerings to meet consumer preferences.

November 17, 2025 by bbc.com

The ban on disposable vapes aims to reduce environmental damage and curb nicotine addiction. Despite the ban, young people in Hull have not significantly changed their vaping habits. The Office for National Statistics revealed a slight decrease in daily or occasional e-cigarette use among 16-24 year olds. The ban, part of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, intends to discourage youth vaping. While there are concerns about the attractiveness of vape flavors and packaging to young people, enforcement against illicit vapes is being strengthened. However, some worry that reusable vapes may still appeal to youths. Overall, the ban is seen as a success in reducing environmental impact, though its full impact on youth vaping remains to be seen.

November 12, 2025 by thesun.co.uk

Police find illegal cigarettes hidden under shelves during a search, leading to an ongoing issue costing the UK government £2.2 billion yearly. A recent operation in Blackburn seized £200,000 worth of illicit tobacco. The underground trade is associated with organized crime and counterfeit products, posing health risks due to non-compliance with UK regulations. The National Crime Agency crackdown reveals the alarming scale of illicit trade, involving small businesses and migrant networks. Experts warn of low risks and high profits driving criminals to this market. The public's demand for cheaper cigarettes fuels the illegal trade, with weak penalties failing to deter offenders. Recommendations include tougher measures to combat the growing illicit tobacco market linked to serious organized crime.

November 12, 2025 by planetofthevapes.co.uk

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill has moved to the Grand Committee stage in the House of Lords – and voices of reason are few and far between. Lord Murray of Blidworth introduced a long list of amendments and, in doing so, took aim at the government and Action On Smoking and Health for ignoring the inevitable consequences of implementing bans.

November 12, 2025 by theguardian.com

Colorful nicotine pouches are the tobacco industry's latest product, marketed as "tobacco-free" but filled with nicotine for a discreet buzz. Despite potential benefits for smokers trying to quit, concerns about addiction and health risks persist. Sales are rising, appealing to younger age groups with revamped marketing. Growing awareness among youth highlights accessibility and potential health issues, with worries about transitioning to more harmful products. The high nicotine content, addictive nature, and unknown long-term effects raise red flags, especially for developing brains. Regulations aim to curb underage use and limit flavors, acknowledging reduced harm compared to smoking but emphasizing the need for caution in preventing non-smokers from starting.

November 10, 2025 by spectator.co.uk

The text discusses the Generational Tobacco and Vapes Bill in the House of Lords and questions the need for the proposed ban on smoking among young people. Data shows a significant decline in smoking rates among the youth due to factors such as increased prices of tobacco and the popularity of vape products. The ban is deemed unnecessary as smoking rates are already decreasing, and the shift towards harm reduction products like vapes is increasing. Enforcing the ban would be costly and potentially ineffective, as evidenced by rising black market activity. Overall, the ban is criticized as unnecessary and costly, given the existing decline in smoking rates.

November 07, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

Despite a ban in the UK, disposable vapes are openly sold, with a new investigation revealing ongoing challenges in enforcing regulations. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill is undergoing detailed scrutiny in the House of Lords to regulate tobacco and vaping sales. Illicit single-use vapes were found in Brighton, indicating a struggle with enforcement despite seizures. The ban aimed to reduce youth vaping and environmental harm but may inadvertently fuel an illicit market. Responsible retailers have adapted to the ban, promoting reusable products. The bill aims for a smoke-free generation and stricter regulations, while industry experts stress the need for better enforcement and standards.

November 06, 2025 by natcen.ac.uk

A study in the UK examined young people's views and use of nicotine pouches, with findings showing high awareness and experimental use, especially among boys. School staff were largely unaware of the pouches. The research recommends enforcing restrictions on sales to under 18s, and regulating marketing and packaging to protect youth. Older boys were found to use pouches discreetly, with reports of adverse effects from users, including gum pain and sickness. The study involved 16 focus groups and interviews with school staff, conducted in Scotland by the Scottish Centre for Social Research. The data highlighted the need for stricter regulation on nicotine pouches to safeguard the well-being of young people.

November 05, 2025 by independent.co.uk

The number of vapers in Britain now exceeds traditional cigarette smokers, with 10% of adults using e-cigarettes compared to 9.1% smoking. In 2024, 10% of women vape, up from 8.5% in 2023, while the proportion among men dropped to 10.1%. Vaping is highest among 16-24-year-olds at 13%, decreasing from 15.8%. Daily e-cigarette use increased to 6.7% in 2024. Additionally, 2.7% of vapers have never smoked. This shift marks a significant change from a decade ago when smoking rates were higher.