Illegal vape seizures soar as UK disposable ban risks fuelling black market
August 19, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu
Illegal vape seizures soar as UK disposable ban risks fuelling black market
Seizures of illegal vapes are surging in the UK due to the disposable ban, driving more activity to the black market. Sussex confiscated 21,200 illicit vape products in 2024 compared to zero four years earlier. In Surrey, seizures rose from 500 to 14,140 last year. While councils see it as progress, critics say more funding is needed for Trading Standards to combat dangerous products. Industry advocates argue crackdowns on rogue traders are essential. Despite efforts, the ban on disposable vapes is backfiring, with illegal sales persisting across the UK. The rise in unlawful vapes poses health risks and undermines the vaping industry's credibility.
11.80% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 6.7 million current smokers in United Kingdom 13.60% of men are current smokers but only 10.10% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR