Considered a lesser risk, vaping is becoming a familiar sight in many countries, and Ireland is no exception. According to the 2022 Healthy Ireland Data, 11% of under-25-year-olds use vapes either daily or occasionally. Moreover, the 3% of adult e-cigarette users in 2022 increased to 8% in 2023.

With this growing trend comes a need for regulations to ensure responsible use. The Irish Government intends to go down hard on vaping, throwing in regulations and bans here and there.

In this blog, we will delve into the world of vaping in Ireland, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of the legalities, market size, and industry norms. We will discuss vaping laws, including age restrictions, nicotine flavours, and the advertising of e-cigarettes. Whether you are a curious observer or a seasoned vaper, it will give you a clear picture of the vaping landscape in the Emerald Isle.

Vaping Regulations In Ireland

Vaping in Ireland is regulated through a combination of national legislation and the European Union's Tobacco Products Directive (TPD). Here's a breakdown of the key points:

Age Restriction

In December 2023, the Department of Health in Ireland passed the Public Health (Tobacco Products and Nicotine Inhaling Products) Act that prohibits selling vapes or e-cigarettes to people under 18. Penalties for breaking this rule are hefty, with fines reaching €4,000 and up to six months of imprisonment.

Advertising And Promotions

Marketing and promotion of vaping products are heavily restricted. Similar to tobacco advertising bans, e-cigarette ads aren’t allowed on billboards, buses, or even at the point of sale in shops. It is also prohibited in printed publications (newspapers, magazines, brochures), on the internet, and on TV or radio.

The 2023 Public Health (Tobacco Products and Nicotine Inhaling Products) Bill also prohibits advertising vapes anywhere near children. It includes public transport, cinema films for children, and within 200 metres of a school. The aim is to curb the appeal of vaping, particularly to young people.

E-Cigarettes Flavours

E-cigarette flavours are not currently restricted in Ireland, but regulations might be introduced in the future. The Irish Government is actively working on eliminating flavours (and designs) with a strong youth appeal, such as sweets or candy.

Taxation On Vape

Vapes are not taxed in Ireland as of now, but that’s about to change. The Minister of Finance of Ireland has announced the introduction of a tax on vapes and e-cigarettes in the Budget 2025.

Product Standard

Product standards are crucial for vapes and e-cigarettes. According to the EU’s Tobacco Products Directive,

• Nicotine-containing e-liquid containers should be limited to 10 ml.
• E-liquid’s nicotine content must not exceed 20 mg.
• Except for nicotine, only ingredients that do not pose a health risk are used in e-liquid.
• Manufacturers must ensure child-resistant packaging for vapes.
• Proper labelling should be present with pre-determined health warnings regarding nicotine.

Market Size Of The Vaping Industry In Ireland

Ireland’s e-cigarette market has taken a boom in recent times as more and more people are turning towards vaping. This growth can be attributed to two main factors:

• Seen as a Smoking Cessation Tool: Some users view vaping as a less harmful alternative to traditional cigarettes, potentially aiding efforts to quit smoking.
• Variety of Products: The market offers a growing selection of devices, from sleek pod vapes to more complex mods, catering to different user preferences and budgets.

Estimates suggest the Irish vaping market could reach US$125.7 million by 2024, with an annual growth rate of around 3%. However, stricter regulations or potential tax increases on vaping products could impact this growth trajectory.

Vaping In Ireland: Industry Trends And Norms

Ireland's vaping industry follows global trends focusing on certain device types and flavours.

E-cigarettes, the original cig-a-like vapes, are still present, but their popularity might be waning. Pod vapes, known for their compact size and user-friendliness, are gaining significant traction. These offer a convenient option for new vapers or those seeking a more discreet device. For experienced vapers, mods with greater customisation and power remain a favourite.

The use of disposable vapes has risen remarkably quickly among younger adults aged 18-24. Over 57% of e-cigarette users used disposable vapes as their primary type in 2023.

Flavour trends lean towards tobacco and menthol options, mirroring traditional cigarettes for some users transitioning to vaping.

Conclusion

The future of vaping in Ireland is quite blurry right now. While vaping is gaining traction among the younger population, policymakers are adamant about regulating it. The trends and estimates suggest that the market is evolving, but the stricter regulations about advertising, flavouring, and age could potentially hinder the industry's growth.