Germany’s ElektroG4 takes effect: Stores selling e-cigarettes must accept used devices free of charge

The revised German Electrical and Electronic Equipment Act, ElektroG4, took effect on January 1, 2026. After the six-month transition period ends, starting July 1, 2026, all stores selling e-cigarettes or tobacco-heating devices must accept discarded devices free of charge, and customers are not required to purchase a new product.