Illegal vape sales are a growing threat across the UK, and Wales is no exception. New figures from National Trading Standards reveal that nearly 1.2 million illegal vapes were seized in England in the last year alone – a 59% increase from the previous year. These products are flooding the market, targeting children, harming public health, and funding organised crime.

While these figures highlight the scale of the problem in England, the issue is just as urgent here in Wales. 10% of Wales’ tobacco market is illegal, and unregulated vapes are becoming increasingly common. Together, we must act to protect our communities, especially our children.

Illegal Vapes: Why They’re a Problem

Illegal vapes are dangerous for several reasons:

• Excessive nicotine levels: Many contain nicotine concentrations well above legal limits.
• Harmful chemicals: Some contain harmful chemicals or cannabinoids
• Appealing to children: Brightly coloured packaging and sweet flavours like “gummy bear” and “rainbow burst” are designed to entice young people.
• Fueling addiction: Cheap and accessible, these products put children and vulnerable groups at risk of lifelong nicotine addiction.
• Funding organised crime: The illegal trade diverts money to criminal networks, undermining honest businesses and public safety.

The impact of these products goes beyond physical harm. The growing availability of illegal vapes undermines efforts to reduce nicotine addiction and protect young people from harmful substances.

The Challenge in Wales

In Wales, an estimated 88,000 people purchased illegal tobacco in 2022, with 39% of illegal sales occurring in private homes. These illegal products bypass regulations, undermining efforts to reduce smoking and vaping rates while fuelling criminal activities.

We are working closely with Trading Standards and other partners to crack down on the illegal sale of vapes and tobacco, but the scale of the problem requires a united effort. Public awareness and community involvement are crucial to stopping the sale of these harmful products.

What Can You Do?

Do you suspect illegal vape or tobacco sales in your area? Your report can make a difference. Every tip helps protect our communities, keep dangerous products off the streets, and hold offenders accountable.

📢 Report illegal sales annonymously here: noifs-nobutts.co.uk/report-illegal-tobacco-in-wales

Our Commitment to a Smoke-Free Wales

At No Ifs No Butts, tackling illegal tobacco and vapes is at the heart of what we do. We know that these harmful products undermine our shared goal of a smoke-free generation, contributing to addiction, poor health, and crime.

By working together, we can:

• Protect children and vulnerable groups from harmful products.
• Support honest businesses that play by the rules.
• Build safer, healthier communities across Wales.

This fight isn’t just about enforcement – it’s about safeguarding the future of our communities and ensuring that the next generation grows up free from the harm of smoking and vaping addiction.

Take Action Now

Have you seen illegal vape or tobacco sales in Wales? Report it anonymously today at: noifs-nobutts.co.uk/report-illegal-tobacco-in-wales.