Display restrictions and plain packaging part of proposed vaping regulations
Retailers across Northern Ireland are being encouraged to give their feedback on the consultation launched on proposed regulations for vaping products, nicotine pouches and other nicotine products.
The consultation on proposals for vapes and nicotine products has suggested introducing plain packaging and limiting flavour names to only recognisable descriptions, such as ‘Apple’.
It is seeking responses on a range of proposals, including restrictions on displays similar to tobacco products and mandating manufacturers of vape devices to make them in plain colours, such as white or grey and without any images.
The consultation, led by the Department of Health, runs until 2nd October 2026 and follows the passing of the Tobacco and Vapes Act which became law on 29th April this year.
It focuses on three areas of proposed regulation across the UK, namely new packaging requirements; new restrictions on vape and heated tobacco device appearance; and new restrictions on where products can be displayed in shops. In outlining the scope of the proposals and when new requirements are introduced, the consultation acknowledges that manufacturers will need time to update their packaging to comply with new riles, while retailers may also need time to sell old stock which would not comply with the new law.
Proposing a minimum notice period of 12 months, this would mean all products in scope of the proposals would need to comply with any new regulatory requirements by the end of a 12-month implementation period. Although it also states they welcome views on whether a longer or shorter notice period is needed.
Describing it as an opportunity for retailers to help make sure new regulations are practical, proportionate and effective, BAT UK added that the implementation of regulations will have a significant impact on day-to-day store operations, including potential financial implications.
“Retailers have invaluable experience of how these products are sold and how regulations work in practice,” said Commercial Director at BAT UK, Tolga Kilic.
“Their feedback can help ensure that any future measures are sensible and avoid unintended consequences for responsible businesses.”
Adding that they support targeted action to prevent youth access to nicotine products, Tolga Kilic added regulation must also ensure adult smokers remain aware of, and have access to, reduced-risk alternatives to cigarettes.
“Measures such as packaging restrictions, display bans and limits on product communications could have significant implications for retailers and for adult consumers seeking alternatives to smoking,” said Tolga.
“It is therefore essential that government carefully considers evidence from those who will be responsible for implementing these changes in practice. We strongly encourage retailers to take part in the consultation and make their voices heard before the government takes final decisions.”
Head of External Affairs UK and Scientific Affairs at Haypp Group, Dr Marina Murpshy also said the consultation provides an opportunity for constructive dialogue on preventing youth access.
“Packaging regulations should reflect the different risk profiles of nicotine products. A one-size-fits-all approach that treats reduced-risk, smoke-free products in the same way as cigarettes risks making it harder for adult smokers to identify and switch to better alternatives,” she said.
“The most effective way to prevent youth access is through robust age-verification, enforcement of existing laws and action against illicit sales. Packaging should support informed adult choice without undermining these measures or reducing the ability of smokers to identify less harmful alternatives.”
See the consultation here: Tobacco and vapes: packaging, appearance and display
