In the largest single operation of its kind to date, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have seized 4.7 million units of unauthorized e-cigarette products, with an estimated value of $86.5 million. The joint federal operation, focused on shipments entering through Chicago, marks a significant escalation in the U.S. government’s strategy to combat the flood of illegal vaping products and protect American youth from unregulated nicotine devices.
According to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), nearly all of the confiscated shipments originated in China. Authorities reported that many importers used deceptive tactics, such as providing vague product descriptions or undervaluing invoices, in an attempt to evade regulatory scrutiny and import duties. All of the seized products lacked the mandatory premarket authorization from the FDA, making them illegal to market or distribute in the United States.
FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary issued a strong statement regarding the enforcement action: “The FDA and our federal partners are taking strong actions to shore up America’s borders and stop the flow of illegal vaping products into our country. Americans—especially our children—should not be using potentially dangerous, addicting products that have been snuck into the United States.”
A key focus of the crackdown is to end the practice of “port shopping,” where importers attempt to move illicit goods through different ports of entry to find and exploit potential loopholes in the inspection process. By tightening controls and enhancing detection methods, the agencies aim to disrupt these supply chains.
So far this year, the FDA and CBP have blocked over 6 million unauthorized e-cigarette units, valued at more than $120 million, from entering the U.S. supply chain. In addition to the seizures, the FDA has contacted 37 importers and entry filers involved with the illicit shipments, warning them that making false statements to the U.S. government is a federal crime and demanding they provide accurate documentation within 30 days.
This operation is part of a broader multi-agency approach that includes enhanced supply chain monitoring and retail-level enforcement. Public health advocates have welcomed the move but continue to stress the need for sustained action to fully address the issue of youth vaping, which is often fueled by flavored, disposable, and youth-targeted products that dominate the illicit market.
- US Authorities Seize $86.5 Million in Unauthorized E-Cigarettes - September 15, 2025
- Wisconsin Vape Shops Lose Lawsuit Against New Law - September 9, 2025
- Arkansas Enacts New Vape Ad & Sales Restrictions - September 4, 2025