Panel Discusses Illicit Vape Smuggling by Cartels and Chinese Entities
A panel of experts at a Daily Caller event described how Mexican cartels and Chinese manufacturers distribute illicit vapes in the U.S., bypassing FDA regulations. They highlighted health risks, including potential fentanyl contamination and past outbreaks like EVALI. The discussion emphasized the need for better enforcement to address the multi-billion dollar illicit market.
asiaone.comA panel at a Daily Caller Live event co-sponsored by Regulate Smarter addressed the issue of illicit vapes entering the United States. The event occurred on Wednesday, and panelists included law enforcement experts who outlined smuggling operations involving Mexican cartels and Chinese manufacturers.
Up to 85% of vapes circulating in the U.S. are illicit, according to the discussion. Jon Adler, president of the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association Foundation, stated that around 2020, Chinese manufacturers began producing unauthorized vapes without FDA testing.
He noted that these products use packaging designed to appeal to children, with flavors like strawberry banana and watermelon ice. Adler compared the smuggling to that of fentanyl, involving cartels and distribution through vape shops, bodegas, and gas stations.
and Economic Impact Regulate Smarter
The Regulate Smarter Chairman and Senator stated that circumventing U.S. regulations has created a multi-billion dollar illicit market, harming compliant producers. Retired Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud explained that cartels use bribery and mislabeling to smuggle products, describing these as low-risk, high-reward activities.
Former U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent Sandalio Gonzalez added that illicit vapes follow the same paths as fentanyl precursors from China to Mexico and into the U.S. Panelists reported that cartels launder profits through fraudulent mechanisms, funding other criminal enterprises.
Research from the National Sheriffs’ Association supports this, according to the discussion. Saoud highlighted the sophistication of these international networks.
Past Incidents Saoud warned of cross-contamination risks, noting that illicit vapes ordered online could contain fentanyl precursors, potentially causing severe allergic reactions or overdoses. She described scenarios where children might require emergency medical intervention.
