Queensland Closes 148 Stores in Record Tobacco & Vape Blitz

The Queensland government has executed Australia’s largest coordinated enforcement action against the illicit tobacco trade, shutting down 148 stores and seizing over $15.7 million worth of illegal smoking products in a 10-day statewide blitz. Dubbed “Operation Major,” the crackdown utilized new legislative powers that allow Queensland Health to immediately close non-compliant retailers for 90 days without a court order.

The operation resulted in the seizure of staggering quantities of illicit goods, including 11.8 million cigarettes, 1.7 tonnes of loose tobacco, 87,000 vapes, 4.2 litres of vaping liquid, and 270,000 nicotine pouches. Raids targeted various regions, with significant closures in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast.

Health Minister Tim Nicholls hailed the action as historic, stating, “Queensland will not tolerate businesses peddling illegal, addictive and dangerous vapes and tobacco.” The crackdown was bolstered by 43 new enforcement officers hired by the Crisafulli government and supported by a special police taskforce. Theo Foukkare, CEO of the Australian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS), praised the move as a “show of strength” but warned that illegal traders are increasingly pivoting online due to federal policy failures.

While the operation successfully disrupted the black market, Nicholls acknowledged challenges in collecting fines from these criminal operators. He emphasized that the primary goal remains public health and stopping sales to minors, rather than revenue raising. Both state ministers called for increased Commonwealth investment in border force to stop illegal products from entering the country in the first place.

• News source: $15m in goods seized, 148 Qld stores closed during 10-day tobacco blitz

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Matthew Ma

Marketing at Ecigator

With over a decade of experience in the e-cigarette industry, Matthew Ma is a seasoned expert in both the manufacturing and usage aspects of vaping products. His extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of the intricacies and evolving dynamics of e-cigarettes.

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