Federal officials seize $86.5M in illegal e-cigarettes

Federal officials announced the largest-ever seizure of unauthorized e-cigarettes, confiscating 4.7 million units valued at $86.5 million. The joint operation, led by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through the Food and Drug Administration, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, targeted incoming shipments at the Chicago port.

Nearly all the seized shipments originated in China and were found to contain vague product descriptions and incorrect declared values, suggesting attempts to evade import duties and FDA scrutiny. None of the products had received the mandatory premarket authorization required for legal sale in the U.S, according to the FDA.

The action is part of the FDA’s broader enforcement campaign to reduce youth vaping. Efforts include preventing “port shopping,” tightening distribution channels, educating parents, and working with retailers to block illegal sales.

So far in 2025, FDA and CBP have intercepted more than 6 million unauthorized e-cigarettes worth over $120 million. The FDA has authorized only 39 e-cigarette products and devices for legal sale in the U.S.

The FDA also issued warnings to 37 importers and entry filers, advising them of potential criminal penalties for false import declarations and demanding compliance within 30 days.

Read more: FDA

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