Heart of the South West Trading Standards is reminding retailers about important new laws coming into force on Thursday 29 October 2026 that strengthen restrictions on the sale and promotion of tobacco, vape and nicotine products
Under the new legislation, it will be illegal to sell any vaping or nicotine product to anyone under 18. Adults will also commit an offence if they buy, or attempt to buy, these products on behalf of someone under 18.
The changes also ban vending machines that dispense tobacco, vaping or nicotine products, herbal smoking products and cigarette papers.
In addition, businesses will no longer be allowed to give away these products for free or offer them at substantial discounts where the purpose is to promote their sale.
Trading Standards is encouraging retailers to make sure they understand the new rules and have appropriate age verification procedures in place before the changes take effect.

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