The price of vapes is set to double tomorrow as a new tax takes effect.
In Budget 2026, the Government announced that a vape tax of 50c per millilitre of e-liquid, excluding 23% VAT, would be levied on all e-cigarettes.
While the Irish Heart Foundation welcomed the tax as a “vital measure in tackling Ireland's epidemic of youth vaping", retailers are less enthusiastic.
On Lunchtime Live, William Buckley, manager of Vapoural in Ballincollig, Cork, said the industry “knew a tax was coming” but is shocked it is so “substantial”.
“Our Government has put over €5 plus VAT on a bottle,” he complained.
“For example, I sell a bottle here for €5.25; that bottle is going to go up to at least €12.
“So, it’s doubling the price of the bottle.
“I’ve never heard of another industry where the Government would put the tax on it and it would double the price of the cost of a unit.”
Mr Buckley added that he believes this is “not acceptable” and will hit consumers in their pocket.
The HSE advises that the “best thing you can do for your health is not to smoke or vape”.
It notes that vaping has been linked to organ damage, mental health problems, nicotine dependence and sleep problems.
People looking for free advice on how to quit can call their helpline on 1800 459 459.
Main image: A person uses a vape. Photo by: Robin Utrecht/Sipa USA.
