Jamie Strachan, operations director at VPZ | The Vaping Specialist, said: “This is exactly why it is vital that the UK Government pushes ahead with its proposed licensing scheme for all retailers selling vape and tobacco products.
“The lack of proper regulation in the retail market not only harms legitimate businesses but also fuels the growing illicit trade.
“Currently, for every £1 spent legally on vaping products in the UK, another £1 is spent illegally – money that is being diverted away from our high streets and into the hands of criminal networks.
“Just as financial secrecy in overseas territories deprives the Treasury of vital funding for schools and hospitals, the unregulated sale of illegal vape products is having a similar effect here at home – undermining responsible businesses, endangering public health, and costing the UK economy millions in lost tax revenue.
“Introducing a robust licensing scheme will help the government close this loophole, protect consumers, and ensure that the vaping sector can continue to play its crucial role in helping the country move towards a smoke-free future.”
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