A new study conducted by retail group HAYPP has revealed that a blanket ban on vape products in the UK could have unintended consequences, potentially reversing the progress made in reducing smoking rates.
Instead of helping people quit smoking, a ban could drive many vapers back to cigarettes, fuelling the growth of a black market for illegal vape sales.
According to the research, 36% of vapers would return to smoking if flavoured vapes were prohibited, and 10% of vapers who have never smoked say they would start smoking cigarettes if flavours were banned.
Furthermore, a ban on disposable vapes could see 14% of users revert to smoking, and 25% of all vapers indicated they would seek illegal alternatives if their preferred products were no longer available.
In a recent release the UK’s leading vape trade association, the UKVIA, stated:
“A blanket ban may not address the root issues. With illegal vapes already circulating, further restrictions could expand this unregulated market.”
The study highlights the importance of a more focused approach on regulation and harm reduction, aimed at protecting consumers and reducing smoking rates.
With 70% of current vapers having previously smoked, vaping has played a significant role in helping many people successfully quit.
Data also shows that 41% of vapers switched to e-cigarettes specifically to quit smoking, including 63% of women.
While underage vaping remains a concern, stricter regulation is seen by many as a more effective response than bans.
Stronger enforcement of existing laws and harsher penalties for retailers who sell vapes to minors could reduce youth vaping without penalising adults who use vaping as a safer alternative to smoking.
Bans could lead to more dangerous behaviours, such as turning back to cigarettes or purchasing illegal, unregulated products.
Around 75% of vapers say they would stop if the cost of vaping became higher than smoking, highlighting the delicate balance needed in regulation.
Increasing taxes or implementing bans could unintentionally drive people back to smoking, with significant public health consequences.
The UKVIA continued:
“A balanced approach is essential in crafting vaping policies.
“While vaping presents challenges, the focus remains on harm reduction and education.
“With smarter regulation, better enforcement on underage sales, and support for vaping as a smoking cessation tool, the UK can continue to move towards a smoke-free future without pushing people back to cigarettes.”
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