The Irish government has approved the Public Health (Single-Use Vapes) Bill 2025, effectively outlawing the sale of disposable e-cigarettes in the Republic. This decisive move aims to curb nicotine addiction among young people, with Health Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill stating her priority is "the protection of our children."
The legislation defines a disposable vape as a non-rechargeable, non-refillable device that comes pre-filled and charged. This ban aligns the Republic with Northern Ireland, where a similar prohibition was enacted in April 2025, carrying penalties of up to two years in prison and fines up to £5,000. Beyond the vape ban, the new law introduces stringent regulations for other nicotine products. It restricts the sale of nicotine pouches to minors under 18 and bans their advertising and open display in retail outlets.
Furthermore, the bill updates existing public health legislation to regulate the packaging, flavors, and point-of-sale displays of all nicotine-inhaling products, anticipating future devices. Officials have pledged to implement these measures swiftly. For the industry, this signals a major shift towards comprehensive oversight, requiring retailers and manufacturers to prepare for strict compliance regarding inventory, packaging, and marketing as enforcement mechanisms are finalized.
- News source: Ireland Passes One-Use Vape Ban, Pouch Rules
