Vape Liquid Prices Are Changing – Here’s Why
From 1 October, a new UK government vape liquid duty will come into effect. This is a nationwide tax applied to vape liquids and liquid-containing products, and it will change prices across the industry.
This page explains what’s changing and what you can expect when buying vape products after this date.
What Is the New Vape Liquid Duty?
The government is introducing a flat-rate tax of £2.20 per 10ml of vape liquid.
This tax applies to all vape liquids and liquid-containing products, including:
- Nicotine-containing e-liquids
- Nicotine-free e-liquids
- Shortfills
- Nicotine shots
- Pre-filled pods and pre-filled pod kits
Every 10ml of liquid is taxed individually, regardless of how it is packaged or sold.
Why Multibuy Deals Will No Longer Be Available
Because the tax is applied to each individual 10ml, multibuy offers (such as “3 for £10”) will no longer be possible.
Each bottle or pod is taxed separately, meaning discounts across multiple units can’t be applied in the same way as before.
How Prices Will Change
Below are typical price examples to help you understand what to expect after 1 October.
10ml E-Liquids
Current average price: £3.00
Expected price after tax: £6.00-£8.00 (individually)
50ml Shortfills
Current average price: £8.00
Added duty: £11.00
Expected price after tax: £19.00
100ml Shortfills
Current average price: £14.00
Added duty: £22.00
Expected base price after tax: £36.00
Nicotine Shots Explained
Nicotine shots are also included in the new tax.
Each 10ml nicotine shot is taxed at £2.20
This means nicotine shots will typically cost around £3.00 each
For example:
A 100ml shortfill with two nicotine shots will now cost around £40 in total.
What About Pre-Filled Pods and Pod Kits?
Pre-filled pods and pre-filled pod kits are also affected, as they contain vape liquid.
- The tax is applied based on the amount of liquid in each pod
- Pods with larger liquid capacities will see a higher price increase
- This applies whether the pod contains nicotine or not
When Does This Start?
The new vape liquid duty begins on:
October 1st 2026
Any vape liquid or liquid-containing product sold after this date will include the new tax stamp.
Why Is This Happening?
The government has stated that the aim of the new duty is to:
- Reduce youth vaping
- Bring vape products into line with other regulated products
This is a UK-wide change and applies to all retailers equally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this apply to nicotine-free liquids?
Yes. The tax applies to all vape liquid, whether it contains nicotine or not.
Does this affect Pre-Filled Pod Kits?
Yes. Pre-Filled Pod Kits contain vape liquid, so the duty applies based on the amount of liquid inside.
Can I buy vape liquid before 1 October to avoid the price increase?
Products sold after 1 October must include the new duty. Availability before this date may be limited.
Why does the price increase seem so large on bigger bottles?
The duty is charged per 10ml, so larger bottles naturally carry more tax.
Is this a temporary change?
At present, this duty is planned as a permanent part of vape regulation.
Can staff help me find affordable options?
Yes. Our team is always happy to explain alternatives and help you choose what works best for you.