In a crucial move for the vaping community, the No Vape Tax campaign has officially kicked off today, spearheaded by notable organizations in the sector, the New Nicotine Alliance (NNA) and Vapers.org.uk. This initiative is a response to the proposed vape tax outlined in the UK’s recent Spring Budget, which plans to introduce a tax on e-liquid by 2026. Here’s what you need to know:
Understanding the Proposed Vape Tax
The UK government’s Spring Budget introduced a tiered tax structure for e-liquids that will take effect in 2026:
- 0 Nicotine / Nicotine-Free e-liquid: Taxed at £1 per 10ml.
- 0.1-10.9mg Nicotine e-liquid: Taxed at £2 per 10ml.
- 11mg or higher Nicotine e-liquid: Taxed at £3 per 10ml.
This tax strategy not only increases costs for consumers but also includes VAT on the additional tax, significantly affecting the affordability of vaping products. This is particularly concerning for vapers using high-nicotine e-liquids to quit smoking.
Campaign Details and How to Participate
The No Vape Tax campaign website provides several ways for individuals to get involved and express their concerns:
- Engage in public consultation: The website guides you through responding to public consultations.
- Share personal stories: Users are encouraged to share their vaping experiences and how the proposed tax could affect them.
- Contact local MPs: The site includes resources to help vapers find and contact their MPs to express their opposition to the tax.
Why This Matters
The proposed vape tax could have significant repercussions for the vaping community and public health. By increasing the cost of e-liquids, particularly those with higher nicotine concentrations, the tax could deter smokers from switching to a less harmful alternative. The campaign emphasizes that now is the time for action, to prevent these changes from making vaping less accessible and affordable.
Get Involved
If you are a vaper or support tobacco harm reduction, your voice is crucial. Visit the No Vape Tax campaign today to learn how you can make a difference. Act now to oppose this tax and support the continued accessibility of safer nicotine products. This is about more than vaping; it’s about supporting public health and ensuring that those who are trying to quit smoking have affordable options available.
Remember, the power to shape policy comes from collective action. Your involvement can help steer the conversation and ensure that the government recognizes the potential negative impacts of its tax proposal on public health.
