U.S. Chicago CBP Seizes $358,000 Worth of Illegal Vapes

Key Points:

• CBP found 144 cartons containing 43,200 unmanifested Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS).
• All products were “Kangvape Onee Stick” devices valued at $358,000.
• FDA and CBP determined they violated the FD&C Act due to lack of authorization and undervaluation.
• The goods were turned over to CBP’s Fines, Penalties, and Forfeiture Office.
• To date, only 39 e-cigarette products are legally authorized by FDA.

2Firsts, Nov. 7, 2025 — U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Chicago recently seized pallets of illicit vaping products that violated the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act). The shipment originated from China and was destined for an address in Mississippi.

Officers at Chicago’s Central Examination Station, near Chicago International Airport, inspected the shipment and discovered 144 cartons containing 43,200 pieces of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) that were not manifested. CBP and FDA personnel determined that the shipment should be seized for violating the FD&C Act because it lacked required FDA marketing authorization and was grossly undervalued to avoid duties and import requirements. The domestic value of the shipment exceeded $358,000.

All seized ENDS were identified as Kangvape Onee Stick products. The merchandise has been turned over to CBP’s Fines, Penalties, and Forfeiture Office for final disposition.

“Our officers are dedicated to identifying and intercepting these types of shipments which could potentially harm the health and wellbeing of people within our communities,” said LaFonda D. Sutton-Burke, Director of Field Operations, Chicago Field Office. “CBP’s trade enforcement mission emphasizes intercepting illicit products, and we will continue to work with our consumer safety partners to identify and seize unsafe goods.”

As of today, the FDA has authorized 39 e-cigarette products and devices for legal sale in the United States. For a full list of authorized tobacco products, visit FDA’s searchable Tobacco Products Database.

Image source: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)