Queensland Cracked Down Illegal Vapes Black Market Shift To Online

According to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), Queensland police raided tobacco shops suspected of selling illegal vapes in less than two weeks, and at least one supplier quickly shifted their business online.

After cracked down on illegal vapes, the black market quickly shifted to online operations

1. Illegal vape suppliers in Queensland, Australia have turned to online sales, with advertisements containing encrypted chat groups.
2. The flyer provides a QR code link to the website and instant messaging application, claiming 24-hour delivery.
3. The new regulations allow police and health departments to close illegal shops for 90 days.
4. If the landlord condones the sale of illegal tobacco by tenants, they will bear criminal responsibility.
5. The health department warns that vapes contain harmful substances such as nicotine, acetone, and antifreeze.

How does the black market quickly shift to online operations

On the Gold Coast, unsigned flyers were posted on multiple power poles promoting the “same day delivery” service, selling products including illegal vapes, tobacco, and nicotine pouches. The flyer QR code links to a website showcasing various flavors of vapes, such as “Strawberry Kiwi” and “Blackberry Ice,” and connects to an encrypted instant messaging application and a chat room with over 300 members.

In the chat room for online sales of vapes, suppliers respond to customers in real-time and confirm delivery within 24 hours. The price of a single vape ranges from AUD 20 to AUD 60 (approximately USD 13-39), and an additional AUD 20 (approximately USD 13) is required for same day delivery.

Queensland police raided tobacco shops suspected of selling illegal vapes

The Queensland Parliament passed new regulations last month authorizing police and the Department of Health to shut down shops selling illegal tobacco and vapes for up to 90 days. Previously, the health department could only order a 72 hour shutdown. According to the law, commercial landlords who knowingly sell illegal tobacco or nicotine products to tenants will bear criminal responsibility.

A spokesperson for the Queensland Department of Health stated, ‘We have the strictest laws in Australia and will continue to monitor various illegal supply channels, including underground sales outside retail stores.’ Any proven illegal behavior will face severe penalties, including hefty fines, product confiscation, judicial proceedings, and potential imprisonment.
The spokesperson also emphasized that according to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) framework, vape advertising on any social media platform is illegal and the sale of non therapeutic and disposable vapes is prohibited. Health officials have been authorized to conduct undercover operations to investigate stores suspected of illegal sales.
The Federal Department of Health has pointed out that vapes are highly addictive, and inhaling e-liquid may cause oral and respiratory irritation, persistent coughing, burns, poisoning, chest pain, respiratory disorders, and permanent lung damage. In addition, nicotine addiction may also damage the brain development of adolescents and trigger mental health problems.

The Past and Future of the Australian vape Market

Data shows that Australia banned vape products starting from 2024. Customs conduct strict inspections on products exported from China, and once vape product was found, they will be confiscated and destroyed.
In earlier years, well-known vape brands sold in Australia included iget, ALIBARBAR, RELX, HQD, and elfbar
However, from last year to this year, vape manufacturers can only enter the black market in Australia through gray shipping channels or lucky shipping methods. This is a huge increase in cost to each vape product. Resulting in a doubling of vape prices in Australia.
However, as Australia’s crackdown becomes increasingly strict, my opinion is that the future trend of Australia vape will become more and more difficult.