The EU’s Vaping Landscape: Navigating the TPD and Beyond

The European Union has long been a frontrunner in regulating the vaping industry, primarily through the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD). Introduced in 2016, the TPD sets a comprehensive framework covering everything from nicotine strength limits (max 20mg/ml) and e-liquid bottle sizes (max 10ml) to tank capacities (max 2ml) and strict packaging/labeling requirements. It also mandates pre-market notification of all products to national authorities. While the TPD aimed to ensure product safety and quality, its impact on the vaping landscape has been profound. It has standardized the market to a significant extent, pushing out non-compliant products and fostering a more regulated environment. However, the TPD doesn’t cover all aspects, leaving room for individual Member States to implement stricter national laws. This has led to a fragmented market where rules can vary significantly from one EU country to another, creating a complex web for both consumers and businesses to navigate. As of mid-2025, discussions are ongoing about potential revisions to the TPD, with a strong focus on youth vaping and environmental concerns. The future of vaping in the EU hinges on how these revisions balance public health goals with the potential for harm reduction.