Scotland bans sale of nicotine products to under-18s

Strict new legislation aimed at protecting children and young people from smoking has now been introduced in Scotland, with under-18s being banned from purchasing all nicotine and herbal smoking products.

The updated rules make it illegal for under-18s to buy pouches, strips and pearls, alongside any herbal products that can be smoked.

It also means anyone selling nicotine products must hold a valid registration by April 29, making Scotland the only part of the UK to know where such products are being sold, according to the Scottish Government.

The ban, which forms part of the Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026, will also mean vending machines can no longer stock these items, while substantial discounts on nicotine products will also be outlawed.

Public health minister Maree Todd said: “We want to protect future generations from nicotine addiction and we know that nicotine products, particularly pouches, are starting to gain popularity among young people.

“By banning the sale of these products to under-18s, the Scottish Government is taking a crucial step in protecting people’s health.

“This in turn is helping people across Scotland to live longer, healthier lives.

“Requiring tobacco and vape retailers to register their business to sell nicotine and herbal smoking products will also provide a strong foundation for effective regulation and enforcement of the sale of these products in Scotland.

“I want to thank all of the retailers who have already registered and remind others they must do so before the deadline next April.”

Scotland’s chief medical officer Gregor Smith said: “Nicotine is a highly addictive substance that can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms including depression, difficulty concentrating and insomnia.

“Whilst vapes may have a role to play in assisting addicted people to stop smoking, it is very clear to me that those who do not smoke should never start using nicotine products, and this especially applies to children and young people.

“I welcome these new age-of-sale restrictions on nicotine and herbal smoking products, which will help reduce the health harms associated with nicotine addiction and address health inequalities in Scotland.”

Sheila Duffy, chief executive of Action on Smoking and Health Scotland said: “Ash Scotland welcomes these measures, enabled by the Tobacco and Vapes Act, as essential steps in closing legal loopholes and preventing the tobacco and nicotine industry from continuing to generate massive profits at a cost to children’s health.

“The consumption of nicotine can have a devastating impact on young people through affecting their cardiovascular system, brain development and mental health, so preventing nicotine pouches sales to children and stopping free sample promotions of vapes are vital measures to tackle youth nicotine addiction.”