The Independent British Vape Trade Association (IBVTA) and the All-Ukrainian Association VARES have signed a memorandum of cooperation, which forms the basis for the development of professional interaction between industry associations of Ukraine and Great Britain.

The memorandum envisages the exchange of practical experience in matters of regulation of the electronic cigarette market, protection of consumer rights, countermeasures against illegal circulation of products and development of a responsible business environment. On a practical level, cooperation will include joint consultations, expert exchange and establishment of sustainable professional communication between associations.

Associations will pay special attention to the formation of transparent market rules and constructive interaction of the industry with state bodies. This approach will allow combining the interests of legal business, the need for state regulation of the market and the protection of consumer rights.

VARES is a specialized association that represents participants in the electronic cigarette market and unites representatives of the legal sector of the industry. The association systematically conducts a dialogue with state authorities regarding the formation and improvement of regulation of the electronic cigarette market.
Among the key priorities are the support of the legal sector, the protection of consumer rights, the fight against illegal products, the de-criminalization of the market, the improvement of business standards and the implementation of best international practices.

The Ukrainian electronic cigarette market is at the stage of forming a more stable and predictable regulatory model. In this context, the practical experience of the professional association of Great Britain, which has already gone through various stages of development of industry regulation and interaction with state institutions, is especially valuable for Ukraine.

Andriy Solomin, head of the All-Ukrainian VARES Association:

"For VARES, this cooperation is an important step in the development of international cooperation between professional associations of the electronic cigarette market.

We are convinced that the exchange of experience and joint work will contribute to the formation of a transparent, responsible and balanced market.

For the Ukrainian industry, this is a great opportunity to gain important international experience in the field of regulation, detinization and development of the legal sector. We continue to develop the industry together, strengthening professional cooperation between Ukraine and Great Britain."

Jillian Golden, CEO of IBVTA, said:

"IBVTA is pleased to officially consolidate our cooperation with VARES at such an important moment for the Ukrainian electronic cigarette sector. For the past ten years, we have consistently championed high standards, responsible business practice and effective evidence-based regulation in the UK.

By sharing our experience with Ukrainian colleagues, we hope to contribute to the development of a transparent and properly regulated market that protects consumers and creates conditions for the development of legal business. We look forward to fruitful cooperation that will strengthen both industries and contribute to better results for consumers in Ukraine and Great Britain."