VAPE IN SWITZERLAND: A YEAR OF TRANSITION IN 2024

INTRODUCTION

E-cigarettes in Switzerland will reach a turning point when new regulations come into force in October 2024. The aim of this framework is to better protect consumers, regulate the market and lay the foundations for a safer, more responsible sector by 2025.

SITUATION IN SWITZERLAND

Since the relaxation of regulations on nicotine-containing liquids in 2018, the country has seen a diversification of products available and a growing adoption of vape among smokers looking to cut down or quit.

Current trends

1. Popularity of puffs: Disposable devices, known as "puffs", remain a popular choice thanks to their ease of use and wide variety of flavours.

2. Focus on quality: Swiss consumers are attentive to quality and compliance with standards, and prefer reliable brands and controlled products.

3. Tougher regulations: Advertising restrictions, nicotine taxation and strict labelling are influencing the market.

Issues

Public health: Although vape is considered to be a less harmful alternative to tobacco, the authorities remain vigilant about its possible adoption by young people.

Sustainability: There are concerns about the environmental impact of disposable devices, prompting initiatives to promote refillable and recyclable alternatives.

KEY CHANGES

Since October 2024, new Swiss regulations have been in place for electronic cigarettes and their derivative products. These measures are designed to protect young people and guarantee consumer safety.

Main changes

Strict age verification: Mandatory for online and in-store sales.

Health warnings: Present on all products, covering 35% of the packaging.

Restrictions on volumes and concentrations: Refills limited to 10ml (20mg/ml nicotine) and disposable cartridges limited to 2ml.

Tax on nicotine products: CHF 2 per 10ml bottle or disposable device.

Use of nicotine boosters: Customers must add their own nicotine to e-liquids using boosters.

INTERNATIONAL REGULATIONS

In 2024, several countries are adjusting their regulations on vaping, in pursuit of common objectives: risk reduction and protection of young people.

European Union: Swiss limits on volumes and concentrations are aligned with the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD), with a distinction for nicotine tax.

United Kingdom: More permissive, the country favours vaping as a smoking cessation tool, with low taxes and wide product availability.

Australia: Strict approach, banning nicotine products without a doctor's prescription, in stark contrast to Switzerland's flexibility.

United States: Legislation varies from state to state, but there are increasing restrictions on flavours to reduce their appeal to young people.

FORECASTS FOR 2025

As the vape market enters a maturing phase, a number of trends are emerging for the year ahead.

1. Product innovations: The emergence of environmentally-friendly products, such as recyclable e-cigarettes and cartridge recovery systems.

2. Regulatory harmonisation: International efforts could emerge to create common safety and quality standards.

3. Market niches: Growth in nicotine-free products and natural flavours to attract new consumers.

CONCLUSION

With the new regulations, Switzerland is aiming to strike a balance between accessibility to vape and consumer protection. Compared with other countries, it is adopting a moderate approach, favouring safety while recognising the essential role of vape in reducing smoking.

By 2025, the Swiss market could become a model of balanced regulation, combining innovation, responsibility and the well-being of users.


Thank you for reading.

The Sweetch team

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