A first-of-its kind licensing framework for the UK vape industry is being put forward in Parliament today.
The mandatory vape retailer and distributor licensing scheme will allow Trading Standards to ‘get tough’ on underage and illicit vape sales, according to the UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA).
The association said its proposals draw on a similar initiative in New Zealand as well as alcohol licensing schemes.
The proposed scheme includes ‘stringent’ criteria for businesses to meet before qualifying for a license to sell vapes, and a penalty system for those who breach licensing terms, with maximum fines of £10,000 for retailers and £100,000 for distributors.
The UKVIA said the scheme could generate £50m a year to support enforcement.
UKVIA co-founder Dan Marchant said: ‘It doesn’t matter what legislation the government introduces, whether the newly announced ban on disposables or any future restrictions, a robust and balanced licensing system is critical to ensuring the law can actually be enforced and for ushering in a new era of responsibility, accountability and best practice.’
