The UAE’s vaping industry must do more to support official government efforts aimed at blocking trade in counterfeit and unregulated e-cigarettes and preventing sales to minors, a leading retailer said.

The sale of e-cigarettes, vaping devices and e-liquids has been legal in the UAE since April 2019 under mandatory regulations laid down by the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA). In the Middle East and Africa, the market is expected to grow by 9.74 per cent annually to reach $485 million by 2025, up from $267.9 million in 2018.

But one of the UAE’s vape retailers, My Vapery, said dealers should work together to support official efforts aimed at preventing potential health threats, and keep e-cigarettes out of the hands of under-21-year olds. The company wants to work with the organisers of the first World Vape Show taking place in Dubai in September to help the industry self-regulate, and spotlight vaping as a less harmful alternative to tobacco smoking, leading to improved public health.

“As retailers, we must all place a bigger emphasis on supporting ESMA and the Police in their efforts to stop the random circulation of counterfeit and unregulated vaping products which can pose health threats,” said the company’s Marketing Manager, Atif Amin.

Taking place at Dubai World Trade Centre from September 19 to 21, the World Vape Show connects manufacturers, retailers, public health professionals and vape enthusiasts from around the world. The event will gather more than 200 vape brands and  up to 50 expert speakers.