ELFBAR calls for evidence-based regulation of ingredients to protect young people and combat illegal trade

• Planned ban on certain ingredients in Germany could create a black market
  fuel and increase tax losses

Berlin, March 4, 2026 – The global vape brand ELFBAR points out that a in
Germany's proposed ban on 13 ingredients in vaping e-liquids is effectively a reality.
This would be tantamount to a ban on flavorings. Such a step would primarily affect legal products and
Brands are weakened, while the already widespread illegal market is further fueled.
could become.

The current debate was triggered by a draft regulation from the Federal Ministry for
Agriculture, Food and Homeland (BMLEH), which was published at the end of January 2026. The draft justifies its proposal by citing health concerns regarding flavored vapes and their particular appeal to young people, in accordance with the precautionary principle.

A spokesperson for ELFBAR explained:

“ELFBAR advocates for a robust regulatory framework and well-equipped
Enforcement structures in the German vaping sector to protect young people and
to ensure product safety. At the same time, we have significant concerns regarding
a far-reaching ban proposal that covers 13 ingredients in e-liquids.

Should the ban be implemented, it would affect the entire industry –
especially compliant brands and products – and shift the strong demand from adult users for flavored vapes into an unregulated, illegal market where product composition and age verification are significantly more difficult to control.

Vapes, especially flavored products, have been proven to play an effective role in helping people quit smoking, as numerous international studies have shown.

ELFBAR is convinced that the most effective approach is science-based,
proportionate and for regulatory authorities, enforcement bodies and industry
It must be equally practical. At the same time, stronger measures are needed to
Enforcement of existing rules along illegal supply chains.

ELFBAR is ready to cooperate with authorities and scientific institutions
to collaborate and to reach a joint, transparent assessment of these 13
to contribute ingredients."

Notes for editors

ELFBAR emphasizes that youth protection has top priority and supports a
consistent enforcement of existing age verification rules, stronger
Market surveillance and a clear regulatory framework. The company is
Furthermore, they believe that regulatory measures should be proportionate, differentiated, and
should be evidence-based.

One in November 2025 by ELFBAR The published market analysis estimates that already
Between 40% and 60% of vape sales in Germany come from unregulated or illegal sources. products. According to the analysis, this alone led to an estimated [amount] in 2024. Tax losses of up to 390 million euros.