According to a report from Navbharat Times on July 31, 63 registered Chinese companies in India illegally imported e-cigarettes within the prohibited range of electronic components. The investigation was initiated by a special research team of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in India, with a total of 63 companies being investigated, all within the monitoring scope of the GST.
An investigation has revealed that in the past three months, these companies illegally imported a large quantity of e-cigarettes into the National Capital Region (NCR) of Delhi, India, under the guise of labeling the products as computer and electronic components.
In addition, GST will also monitor some online shopping websites and courier companies that are involved in the delivery of e-cigarettes. Although India has banned the sale and online purchase of e-cigarettes, Chinese companies registered in Noida continue to illegally import these products through illicit channels.
India's ban on e-cigarettes was primarily motivated by concerns over potential serious health issues such as heart disease, respiratory illnesses, and cancer. The Ministry of Home Affairs has notified the GST Commissioner's office, explicitly stating that e-cigarettes are banned in India and requesting strict action against any domestic or foreign companies illegally importing e-cigarettes.
Despite the strict ban, multiple large grocery stores in Noida and Greater Noida are still discreetly selling e-cigarettes. According to reports, these stores are selling e-cigarette products ranging from 100 to 10,000 rupees (approximately $1.2 to $120), including e-cigarette pens, cartridges, and electronic hookahs. Due to their rapid popularity among teenagers, local police have launched surprise inspections.
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
