Five Hobart retail businesses have been allegedly caught with commercial quantities of illegal vaping products following a two-day enforcement operation across the city.
The coordinated sting, carried out by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and Department of Health with Tasmania Police support, executed warrants on September 2 and 3.
Authorities seized substantial amounts of illegal vapes and tobacco products as part of ongoing efforts to enforce vaping laws, which prohibit retail sales outside of pharmacies.
A TGA spokesperson said the operation targeted businesses suspected of contravening the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989.
“Since the start of the government’s vaping reforms in July 2024, the TGA and partnering agencies have conducted numerous warrant and enforcement activities across Australia,” the spokesperson said.
“More than 12 million illegal vapes, with an estimated street value of over $600 million, have been taken off the streets by the ABF and TGA since January 2024.”
Under current regulations, vaping products can only be legally supplied through pharmacies with a prescription to help people quit smoking or manage nicotine dependence.
Retailers face severe penalties for non-compliance, including fines up to $2.31 million for individuals and $23.1 million for companies.
Criminal charges could result in penalties up to $1.65 million or seven years imprisonment.
The TGA said they have plans for further local blitzes and ongoing interceptions at the border.
