Vape tax could rise in Budget after raising €22m in nine months

The Government is considering increasing the tax on vapes in October's budget. 

The levy, which was introduced last year, works out at €1 on a 2ml vape and has so far raised €22 million, according to The Irish Times.

The increase is expected to be considered in time for the Budget in October.

The E-liquid Products Tax (EPT) became law in the 2024 Finance Act and came into effect on November 1st last.

The tax is set at €500 a litre, which works out at €1 for a 2ml vape. An increase is likely to be announced in Budget 2027, which is to be delivered on October 6th.

The Revenue Commissioners impose the tax on those who first supply e-liquid products in the State, mainly importers and manufacturers, in what is called the “first supply model”.

Minister for Finance Simon Harris stated earlier this month that the “provisional yield” since its introduction last November had been more than €22 million.

Vapes are electronic devices that heat a liquid rather than burn tobacco. The liquid contains nicotine and flavourings to produce an inhalable aerosol.