New restrictions on the sale and promotion of vaping and nicotine products come into force in Wales today, 29 October 2026.

The changes extend the under-18 sales ban beyond nicotine-containing vapes to include nicotine-free vapes and other nicotine products, including nicotine pouches. They apply to online retailers as well as shops.

According to Welsh Government guidance, adults also commit an offence if they buy, or attempt to buy, vaping or nicotine products for someone under 18.

Wider restrictions on sales and promotions

The rules cover products containing synthetic nicotine as well as nicotine extracted from plants. Medicinal products and medical devices are excluded.

Promotional giveaways and substantial promotional discounts are also restricted from today. Giving away products or coupons, or selling them at a substantial discount, is an offence where the purpose or effect is to promote vaping or nicotine products.

For retailers, the changes mean checking that age-verification arrangements and promotional activity reflect the wider range of products now covered. Customers may be asked for proof of age. Read the Welsh Government’s sales guidance.

Vending-machine rules also change

The vending-machine ban now covers vaping and nicotine products alongside tobacco products, herbal smoking products and cigarette papers. It includes machines that dispense products directly to customers as part of a sale, even when payment happens elsewhere.

A limited exemption allows vape vending machines in areas of adult mental health hospitals intended wholly or mainly for inpatients in England and Wales. The person managing or controlling the premises is responsible for compliance. Welsh Government vending-machine guidance.

The smokefree-generation rules begin in January

Today’s changes are a separate stage from the new tobacco age-of-sale system.

From 1 January 2027, tobacco products, herbal smoking products and cigarette papers must not be sold to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009. Adults will also be prohibited from buying, or attempting to buy, those products on behalf of someone in that birth-date group.

The existing under-18 tobacco sales restriction remains in place until then. The new birth-date rule does not replace the 18+ sales rule for vaping and nicotine products. Welsh Government tobacco sales guidance.

For the full picture of the rules applying now and the changes still to come, read ASH Wales’ guide to smoking, vaping and nicotine laws in Wales.