Customs and Border Protection seizes illicit e-cigarettes and tobacco from a kiosk in Bottrop.
In a coordinated effort to ensure consumer safety and regulatory compliance, multiple government agencies conducted a joint inspection operation in the city of Bottrop on August 7th, 2023. The operation, led by the Main Customs Office and Trade Department, involved the Municipal Ordinance Service, Customs, Police, and unspecified other agencies.
During the operation, large quantities of untaxed tobacco and untaxed e-cigarettes, known as illegal vapes, were seized from a kiosk. The business operator of the kiosk did not cooperate during the inspection, leading to a tax evasion procedure being initiated.
Illegal vapes pose a threat to the regulatory system, as they evade tax law, Customs control, and market surveillance. These products, often originating from China, do not meet EU safety and health standards and may contain harmful substances. They also have defective batteries, posing significant health and fire hazards.
The sale of untaxed tobacco and e-cigarettes is illegal in Germany, with new excise duties and tax stamps enforced since January 1, 2025. Products without proper taxation or stamps are considered smuggled or counterfeit and subject to penalties and Customs control. Penalties for selling untaxed tobacco or e-cigarettes typically include heavy fines and possible criminal prosecution under German Customs and tax laws.
The seizure of illegal vapes in Bottrot is part of ongoing efforts to address the issue of illicit trade. Enhanced taxation and regulation of both tobacco and e-cigarettes aim to reduce consumption and related health harms, while Customs enforcement prevents illegal trade that bypasses these measures.
In another development, a violation of the Price Indication Ordinance (PAngV) was discovered in a large supermarket. An administrative offense procedure has been initiated by the Trade Department due to this finding.
The impact on public health is significant as untaxed products tend to be cheaper and more accessible, potentially increasing consumption and undermining public health efforts to reduce smoking rates. Germany has a relatively high smoking prevalence and relatively low tobacco taxes compared to other EU countries, which challenges public health policy.
This regulatory approach aligns Germany with broader EU efforts to regulate tobacco and nicotine products while addressing unique national challenges related to smoking prevalence and illicit trade. It is clear that the fight against illegal tobacco and vape sales is a critical component of public health and market integrity efforts in Germany.
- The seizure of illegal vapes during the joint operation in Bottrot on August 7th, 2023, highlights the importance of finance regulations, as the evaded taxes on these products have implications for the overall government revenue and regulatory compliance.
- The violation of the Price Indication Ordinance (PAngV) in a large supermarket falls under the jurisdiction of the general-news category, as it involves a breach of consumer protection laws, which can impact the fair trade practices and justice in the market.
