If you’re a vaper in the UK, you’ve probably heard terms like TPD, TRPR, and maybe even the disposable vape ban thrown around. But what do they actually mean? And how do they affect your vaping experience now — and in the future?
Let’s break it down in simple terms. We’ll cover what TPD and TRPR are, how UK vaping rules are changing post-Brexit, and what you need to know about recent updates.
What’s the TPD?
Here’s the quick version:
The Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) was created by the EU in 2016 to regulate tobacco and vaping products across Europe. It focused on safety, quality, and clear labelling — all to ensure vapers knew what they were using.
Some key rules under TPD included:
- E-liquid bottles capped at 10ml
- Nicotine strength limited to 20mg/ml (2%)
- Tanks and pods must be 2ml or smaller
- Child-resistant packaging required
- Health warnings mandatory
- Products had to be approved before they could go on sale
Basically, it laid the foundation for vaping rules in the UK (and the rest of Europe) while the UK was part of the EU.
What’s the TRPR?
When the UK left the EU, it needed its own set of vaping laws. Enter the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations (TRPR). It’s basically the UK’s version of the TPD, introduced in 2016.
For now, TRPR and TPD are almost identical. The same rules still apply:
- E-liquids are limited to 10ml bottles
- Nicotine content capped at 20mg/ml
- Tanks and pods restricted to 2ml
- Products need approval from the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency)
- Packaging and labelling must meet strict requirements
But here’s the key difference: TRPR is now governed independently. That means the UK can tweak its vaping laws without needing approval from the EU.
TRPR vs TPD: What’s the Difference?
Right now, there’s no big difference between TRPR and TPD. If you’ve vaped under TPD rules before, you won’t notice much change.
But the big deal is this: the UK has control over its vaping laws now. So, over time, TRPR will likely evolve to fit the UK’s needs — and we’re already seeing this with the upcoming disposable vape ban.
What’s the Deal with the Disposable Vape Ban?
One of the biggest changes on the horizon is the UK’s planned disposable vape ban, set to roll out in 2025.
Why is the UK banning disposables?
- Youth vaping concerns: Disposables are super popular with teens, which has raised concerns about underage use.
- Environmental impact: Single-use vapes create a ton of plastic and electronic waste.
- Health policies: The government wants to encourage adult smokers to switch to more sustainable, reusable vape options.
What does this mean for you?
Once the ban takes effect, you won’t be able to buy disposable vapes like Elf Bars or Lost Marys in shops or online. But don’t worry — reusable pod systems, refillable kits, and e-liquids will still be available, as long as they meet TRPR regulations.
Many brands are already preparing for this shift by offering longer-lasting alternatives like pod kits and refillable devices. Devices like the Pyne Pod Click 50K are leading the way: less waste, more control, and better flavour.
How to Stay Compliant with UK Vaping Rules
Keeping up with vaping laws might seem tricky, but here are a few easy tips to stay on the right side of the rules:
- Only buy TRPR-compliant products: Look for warnings, batch numbers, and MHRA approvals on packaging.
- Avoid oversized tanks or high-nic e-liquids that go beyond legal limits.
- Start exploring reusable vape kits
- Stay informed: Follow trusted vape retailers or check MHRA updates to keep up with changes.
The Future of Vaping in the UK
While the UK’s vaping rules still reflect their EU roots (thanks to the TPD), the shift to TRPR gives the UK more freedom to create regulations that work for local needs.
Policies like the disposable vape ban are the first step in shaping the future of vaping.
As a vaper, staying informed is the best way to adapt. Whether you’re just starting out or have been vaping for years, knowing the rules will help you make smart choices, stay compliant, and support responsible vaping.
If you’re still using disposables, now’s the perfect time to switch to reusable pod systems or refillable kits. Not only are they more sustainable, but they also give you better flavour and flexibility.
Keep an eye out for updates, and we’ll be here to guide you through every step of the way!
