Ban on single-use vapes in Switzerland: new regulations, background information, and international comparisons

Background and Motivation

On June 4, 2025, the Swiss Council of States approved a ban on disposable e-cigarettes. This decision follows the National Council's approval in 2024 and is intended in particular to protect young people from the health risks of sustained nicotine consumption. Swissinfo.ch

The Regulation in Detail

The new provisions apply exclusively to disposable e-cigarettes, i.e., closed systems with a maximum capacity of 2 ml of e-liquid and a nicotine content of up to 20 mg/ml. Pod systems and larger, refillable e-cigarettes are exempt from the ban. AT Schweiz

International Comparisons

France already banned the sale of disposable e-cigarettes on February 26, 2025, to protect young people and the environment. The ban covers all closed disposable systems that cannot be refilled. Service-public.fr

A similar ban on disposable vapes comes into force in England and Wales from June 1, 2025. Here, too, only non-refillable disposable systems are affected. Financial Times

Impact and Outlook

Swiss professional associations welcome the ban as an important step for youth and environmental protection. However, critics fear that consumers might turn to the black market or use unregulated products. In the long term, manufacturers are expected to increasingly offer refillable systems to comply with legal requirements.

Conclusion

By limiting the ban to closed 2 ml disposable systems, Switzerland is following international precedents while creating clear regulatory frameworks. Pods and larger, refillable devices remain available, offering alternatives to adult users. Whether the ban achieves its desired effects will become apparent in the coming months.