The Australian Border Force (ABF) has achieved a significant milestone in its efforts to combat the illegal trade of vaping and tobacco products, seizing a record amount of nearly 1,000 tonnes, primarily in New South Wales. This operation has been described as one of the largest in the ABF’s history, with an estimated value of over $2 billion that has been prevented from entering the black market.
In just four months, the ABF confiscated hundreds of tonnes of loose-leaf tobacco and around 800 million cigarettes. To put this into perspective, if the cigarettes were laid end to end, they would stretch over 71,000 kilometres—almost enough to circle the globe twice. Additionally, four million vapes were seized during this period.
Assistant Commissioner Tony Smith emphasised the scale of these seizures, stating that they signify a concerted effort by law enforcement across various fronts, including air and sea borders, as well as mail and passenger arrivals. Most of the illicit products intercepted originated from Asia, with one instance involving a woman returning from Bali with an excessive quantity of cigarettes beyond legal limits.
The ABF also took proactive measures to prevent over 35 million cigarettes and 560,000 vapes from entering Australia in the first place. Operation Printwall’s commander, Andrew Tankey, noted that this initiative reflects an intelligence-led enforcement strategy designed to target all aspects of the illegal trade.
Smith issued a clear warning to anyone engaged in these activities, stating that the ABF is watching closely and will pursue individuals involved in the movement, storage, or distribution of such products. This robust enforcement underscores the government’s commitment to protecting public health and preventing revenue loss from the Australian taxpayer.
As the crackdown on illegal vaping and tobacco products continues, authorities are making it clear that they have the resources and determination to disrupt this illicit market.