Key Points
- A Kantar Ukraine study found that more than 93% of surveyed vape products in Ukraine did not fully meet regulatory requirements, while around 4% complied with all requirements.
- Pod systems and disposable vapes represent major segments of Ukraine’s vape market.
- Around two-thirds of the pod and device market was attributed to brands owned by three Chinese manufacturers.
- VapeOnly, Smoore and Woody Vapes were identified among brands with significant presence in the Ukrainian device market.
- Offline retail accounted for around 75% of vape purchases, compared with approximately 25% through online channels.
2Firsts
August 26, 2026
According to Interfax-Ukraine, a market study conducted by Kantar Ukraine found that more than 93% of vape products in Ukraine did not fully comply with local regulatory requirements. The study, commissioned by major tobacco companies, examined product categories, brand distribution and consumer purchasing channels in Ukraine’s vape market.
The research found that only around 4% of surveyed products met all regulatory requirements, while more than 93% showed varying levels of non-compliance. Kantar said the study was designed to assess the current structure and compliance status of Ukraine’s vape market.
Pod Systems and Disposable Vapes Dominate Market Structure
According to the Kantar study, pod systems and disposable vapes represent major categories in Ukraine’s vape market.
The research identified refillable pod devices, disposable products and other vape formats among products available to consumers. Some product categories may overlap within the study’s classification framework and should not be interpreted as directly additive market shares.
Chinese Manufacturers Hold Significant Device Market Presence
The study found that brands owned by three Chinese manufacturers accounted for around two-thirds of the pod and device market.
The brands identified include:
● VapeOnly;
● Smoore;
● Woody Vapes.
The findings indicate the strong presence of Chinese manufacturers in Ukraine’s vape hardware segment.
Offline Retail Remains the Main Purchasing Channel
The Kantar research showed that offline retail remains the dominant purchasing channel for Ukrainian vape consumers.
Around 75% of purchases were made through physical retail channels, while approximately 25% were completed online.
The findings suggest that retail-level oversight and product compliance remain important issues for market regulation.
Compliance Becomes a Key Factor for Market Development
As regulators worldwide continue to strengthen oversight of vape and nicotine products, compliance with local requirements has become a critical factor for companies operating across different markets.
The Kantar study provides insight into Ukraine’s vape market structure and product compliance landscape. For manufacturers, suppliers and industry participants, understanding regulatory requirements and strengthening compliance management remain essential for market operations.
Follow 2Firsts for timely updates on global tobacco and nicotine regulations, market developments and industry trends.
Cover Image Source: Interfax-Ukraine
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