If you're a vaper in the UK, you've probably heard the terms TPD, TRPR, and more recently, the disposable vape ban. But what do these regulations actually mean? How do they affect your vaping experience today — and what’s coming next?
In this post, we’ll break down the difference between TRPR and TPD, how UK vaping laws are changing post-Brexit, and what vapers need to know about the latest government updates.
What Is the TPD? (Tobacco Products Directive)
Let’s start with the basics.
The Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) is a piece of legislation created by the European Union to regulate tobacco and vaping products. It came into effect in 2016 and aimed to ensure product safety, quality control, and proper labelling across all EU countries.
Under the TPD, vaping products had to meet specific requirements:
- E-liquid bottles can't be larger than 10ml
- Maximum nicotine strength of 20mg/ml
- Tanks and pods must not exceed 2ml
- All products must have child-resistant packaging
- Health warnings are mandatory
- Manufacturers must submit product details to regulators before launch
The TPD laid the foundation for how vape products were sold and marketed across Europe, and the UK followed these rules closely when it was still a member of the EU.
What Is the TRPR? (Tobacco and Related Products Regulations)
When the UK left the EU, it needed its own version of the TPD — and that’s where TRPR comes in.
The Tobacco and Related Products Regulations 2016 (TRPR) is essentially the UK’s copy-paste of the TPD. It took effect at the same time and retained nearly all the same rules. However, now that the UK has left the EU, TRPR is governed independently, giving UK lawmakers the flexibility to adjust vape laws without needing EU approval.
Under TRPR, the following vape regulations still apply in the UK:
- E-liquids are limited to 10ml bottles
- Nicotine content capped at 20mg/ml (2%)
- Tank size restricted to 2ml
- Products must be submitted to the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products
Regulatory Agency) before they can be sold
- Strict packaging and labelling rules
- Advertising is limited, especially on mainstream media
In short: TRPR is the UK’s current vaping regulation framework — and it's evolving.
TPD vs TRPR: What’s the Difference?
At the moment, TRPR and TPD are nearly identical. If you’ve vaped under TPD rules, TRPR won’t feel much different.
But the key difference is this: the UK now has control over its own vaping laws. That means TRPR can (and likely will) start diverging from TPD as the UK government tailors regulations to fit local needs.
We’re already starting to see this play out with the disposable vape ban, which is not an EU-wide policy.
The Disposable Vape Ban in the UK: What You Need to Know
One of the biggest updates to UK vape regulations is the planned ban on disposable vapes, announced in 2024 and expected to take effect in 2025.
Why is the UK banning disposable vapes?
- Youth vaping concerns: Disposable vapes have become especially popular with teens, leading to worries about underage usage.
- Environmental impact: Single-use devices generate huge amounts of electronic and plastic waste.
- Public health strategy: The government wants to steer adult smokers toward regulated, reusable vape options.
What does this mean for UK vapers?
Once the ban is in place, you’ll no longer be able to buy single-use disposable vapes like Elf Bars or Lost Marys in shops or online. However, reusable pod systems, refillable kits, and E-liquids will still be legal — as long as they comply with TRPR regulations.
Brands and retailers are already preparing for this change by offering longer-lasting alternatives like pod kits and high-capacity refillables. Devices like Pyne Pod Click 50K are a great example of where the industry is heading: less waste, more control, and better flavour.
How Can Vapers Stay Compliant in the UK?
Navigating vaping laws can feel confusing, but here are a few simple tips to make sure you're staying on the right side of the law:
- Only buy TRPR-compliant products: Look for packaging that includes warnings, batch numbers, and MHRA notifications.
- Avoid oversized tanks or high-nic E-liquids that exceed the legal limits.
- Start exploring reusable vape kits.
- Stay informed: Follow trusted vape retailers or subscribe to MHRA updates to stay ahead of regulatory changes.
Final Thoughts: The Future of Vaping in the UK
While the UK’s vaping laws still reflect their EU origins (thanks to the TPD), the shift to TRPR has opened the door for more UK-specific policies — like the disposable vape ban.
As a vaper, staying educated on UK vape regulations is essential. Whether you're new to vaping or a long-time enthusiast, understanding the rules helps you make informed choices, stay compliant, and support responsible vaping.
We’ll be keeping an eye on new updates as the UK shapes its own path in the vaping space. In the meantime, consider switching to reusable pod systems or refillable vape kits to stay ahead of the curve.
