Vaping News · Scotland

Illegal Vaping Sales in Scotland Exceed £2.8 Billion

H HNB Home2026-01-15Views 85Source HNB Home

According to Convenience Store magazine, Scottish convenience retailers are calling for stronger enforcement to combat what they describe as a growing illegal vaping black market. They warn that weak regulation could worsen the problem. The Scottish Groce

According to Convenience Store magazine, convenience store retailers in Scotland are calling for stronger enforcement against what they describe as a rapidly growing illegal vape black market. They warn that weak oversight could make the problem even worse. The Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) said illegal vape sales are costing the public purse millions of pounds in lost tax revenue, harming compliant local stores, and posing health risks because the products are unregulated. As the UK government advances its Tobacco and Vapes Bill and Scotland prepares related supporting legislation, the SGF is urging policymakers to consult closely with retailers and invest more in trading standards enforcement to avoid creating unintended opportunities for crime, particularly around flavor restrictions and product display rules.

Luke McGarty, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at the Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF), said organized crime groups are becoming increasingly involved in the illegal vape trade, with these products often being sold to underage consumers without any safety safeguards. He warned that illegal tobacco is already costing HM Revenue & Customs around £2.8 billion a year, and that figure could rise sharply as the illegal vape market expands. Retailers report that illicit activity has intensified following the disposable vape ban, with three-quarters of SGF members saying the ban has fueled illegal sales. Shop owners and the federation stress that without stronger enforcement and carefully designed rules, further regulation could accelerate illicit trade, increase crime and abuse directed at retail staff, and undermine public health goals, including smoking cessation.

Tags:Scotland

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