The Australian Border Force (ABF) has stopped more than 13 tonnes of disposable vapes from entering the community after seizing a number of air cargo consignments in Adelaide.
This is the first large-scale seizure in Australia under the new vaping regulation that came into force on Monday 1 January 2024.
ABF officers' suspicions were initially raised when 14 air cargo consignments - declared as "refillable atomiser" - arrived from a single point of origin.
Following the detection in these consignments, which contained 10 tonnes of disposable vapes, officers undertook rapid investigations, including warrant activity, resulting in the location and seizure of a further three tonnes of disposable vapes.
In total, the 13 tonnes of vapes have an estimated potential street value of more than $4.5 million.
Inquiries into those involved in the illicit importation are continuing.
Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:
"Our vaping policy to that came into effect on 1 January to ban the importation of disposable single use vapes is working.
"Before our Government changed the loopholes in existing laws, millions and millions of disposable vapes were able to flood into Australia - vapes that are deliberately marketed at our children.
"Single use disposable vapes are brightly coloured and bubble gum flavoured, intended to entice young kids who are using them. This is all part of a Big Tobacco's plan to recruit a new generation to nicotine addiction.
"About one in six high school students are vaping, and about one in four young Australians aged between 18 and 24 are vaping.
"The only groups who want to regulate and sell vaping products are those who profit once kids get hooked on nicotine - Big Tobacco and tobacco retailers.
"I thank the ABF for getting on with the job of stopping these vapes at the border and protecting our children."
Quotes attributable to ABF Assistant Commissioner Chris Waters:
"This is a clear signal to the community that the new vaping regime was well and truly underway.
"Unlawful behaviour in relation to vape imports at the border will be detected and the goods will be seized.
"We expect many international vaping suppliers will continue to attempt to send products to Australia, and may seek to change their behaviour to avoid detection.
"The ABF's experience in preventing the importation of a range of prohibited goods means we are skilled and experienced to respond to this challenge.
"All Australian suppliers of vaping products should heed this notice. If you attempt to conceal imports of vapes, we will uncover and intercept them.
"Combatting the challenges presented by vapes is complex and one that is being fought across many fronts. The ABF's role in border protection compliments the commitment of Commonwealth, state and territory partners to tackle this problem across all stages of the supply chain."
