The UK government has unveiled a significant boost in enforcement efforts targeting the illicit trade of tobacco and vape products. This move supports the ongoing Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which aims to create the world’s first smoke-free generation by gradually ending tobacco sales to those born on or after 1 January 2009.

Expanded Trading Standards Operations

A £10 million funding package will enable Trading Standards to recruit approximately 80 new apprentice enforcement officers over the next year. These officers will work closely with local police forces to disrupt organised crime groups supplying illegal tobacco and vaping products to neighbourhood shops, with a particular focus on preventing underage sales.

Trading Standards teams employ targeted seizures and use sniffer dogs to detect illicit vapes concealed within retail environments. This enhanced enforcement complements HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and Border Force’s existing £100 million illicit tobacco strategy.

New Legal Powers and Compliance Measures

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill introduces new civil and criminal powers set to come into effect alongside the vaping duty in 2026. These powers will allow authorities to seize illegal products more effectively and recruit over 200 additional compliance staff to monitor the market.

Further provisions include £200 on-the-spot fines in England and Wales for breaches of age-of-sale restrictions, along with the potential introduction of a licensing scheme for retailers selling tobacco, vape, and nicotine products across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Addressing Organised Crime and Public Safety

Illicit tobacco and vape products are closely linked to organised crime, funding other illegal activities such as human trafficking and modern slavery. Last year, Trading Standards seized over a million illegal vapes, 19 million counterfeit cigarettes, and more than 5,000 kilograms of illicit hand-rolling tobacco.

Government and enforcement bodies emphasise that tackling illicit trade protects communities, supports public health, and contributes to safer streets by disrupting criminal networks.

It is important to remember that tobacco and nicotine products remain age-restricted and harmful. For further detailed updates on tobacco regulation, duty, and customs, visit https://cigarettesandbaccy.com.