Crackdown on Smuggling: Turkey Seizes Millions in Contraband

Regulations by 2FIRSTS.ai

Jan.10.2024

Crackdown on Smuggling: Turkey Seizes Millions in Contraband

Turkish authorities have seized smuggled items worth millions during 2023 inspections, including cigarettes, e-cigarettes, animals, and cultural artifacts.

According to Turkish media outlet Hurriyetdailynews, data on the crackdown on smuggling at border crossings and ports in 2023 has been released. During the inspections and operations conducted in 2023, approximately 1.15 million packages of smuggled cigarettes with a value of 46.2 million Turkish lira were seized. Additionally, around 1.2 million e-cigarettes worth 565.5 million Turkish lira (approximately 18.86 million US dollars), 7 million e-cigarette components worth 80.4 million Turkish lira, 8,670 live animals, and 3,924 historical, natural, and cultural items were confiscated.

As the import and domestic sale of smuggled e-cigarettes are prohibited and they are not subject to taxation, these items are not included in the potential fiscal revenue loss.

In the opening ceremony at the Istanbul headquarters of the Turkish Young Businessmen and Industrialists Association (TÜGİAD), Trade Minister Erman Bulut stated on January 8th that his department is making efforts to combat individuals engaging in unfair trade practices.

At this juncture, should we identify any disparities, unfairness, or excessive conduct in any sector or industry, we undertake investigations through our inspection team. If any legal loopholes are found, we promptly make the necessary adjustments.

References:

[1] Smuggled goods worth billions seized at borders

Also Read:

[1] Successful Seizure of 488 Phones and 45 E-cigarettes in Turkey

[2] Large-scale Operation Targets Violations; 488 Phones and 45 E-cigarettes Seized

[3] Police in Bilecik Successfully Crack down on Tobacco Smuggling

#Europe #Law enforcement #Turkey #Smuggled cigarettes

We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.

Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn

Notice

1. This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.

2. The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

3. This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.

4. Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.

Copyright

This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.

For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com

AI Assistance Disclaimer

This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.

We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com

Japan Tobacco Unveils New Ploom EVO Honey Lemon Smoke Stick, Nationwide Launch in Japan from January 2026

Japan Tobacco (JT) has announced a new flavor for its Ploom brand’s premium EVO smoke sticks: “EVO Honey Lemon Crystal.” The product will be rolled out in stages, beginning with an early release through official channels in December 2025, followed by a nationwide launch across convenience stores and tobacco retailers in January 2026, priced at JPY 550 (approximately USD 3.7).

Dec.16 by 2FIRSTS.ai

Complete Vape Prohibition Takes Effect Across Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan has enacted a nationwide ban on the sale and circulation of e-cigarettes and related vape liquids, following the approval of a new law signed by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The legislation introduces criminal liability for violations, with penalties including fines of 300 to 500 basic calculation units (approximately US$10,300–17,200), corrective labor for up to three years, or imprisonment for up to five years.

Nov.28 by 2FIRSTS.ai

Belgium Plans to Ban All Vape Flavours Except Tobacco, Backed by Health Council

Belgian Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke has announced plans to ban all e-cigarette flavours except tobacco, following new advice from the Superior Health Council (CSS). The move marks a major policy shift, as the Council now fully supports flavour restrictions to curb youth vaping.

Nov.19 by 2FIRSTS.ai

Malaysia’s vape industry flags “policy U-turn” concerns after ban on refillable open-system e-cigarettes

Malaysia’s vape industry has raised concerns over the government’s decision to ban refillable open-system e-cigarettes, describing it as a policy reversal despite earlier regulatory approvals.