Fines Issued for Illegal Nicotine E-cigarettes in Australia

According to a report from MIRAGE on June 13, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia has issued 38 infringement notices totaling AUD 588,840 to four entities located in Sydney for importing 22 batches of nicotine e-cigarette products, comprising a total of 379,600 units.

It has been reported that TSG Liverpool Street Pty Ltd, TSG Balmain Pty Ltd, TSG Chatswood Pty Ltd, and Jaradat & Sabbagh Group Pty Ltd have attempted to import prescription-only nicotine vaporization products into Australia that are not registered with the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods and do not comply with relevant standards.

The TGA laboratory has tested samples of disposable e-cigarettes from imported IGET, GUNPOD, and HQD brands and found that they contain prohibited ingredients listed in the Therapeutic Goods Order (TGO 110) for Nicotine Vaping Products Standard released in 2021.

Unapproved nicotine electronic cigarette products have been intercepted by the Australian Border Force and will be confiscated and destroyed in accordance with the recommendations of the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).

Unregulated nicotine e-cigarette products are becoming increasingly concerning in Australian communities, especially among teenagers and young adults, due to their availability and usage. Associated health risks include nicotine addiction, poisoning, toxin exposure, as well as severe injuries and burns.

On May 2, 2023, the Minister for Health and Aged Care announced that the Australian government is taking strong action to combat the supply of illegal electronic cigarette products.

Reference(s):

Sydney TSG Stores and Pty Ltd have been fined $588,000.