More than $1 million worth of illegal e-cigarettes and nicotine-containing liquids have been seized in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW) this year, according to statistics.
Since July 2020, NSW Health has seized more than A $3 million in banned products.
According to 7News, from October 2021, nicotine-containing products will only be available to people over the age of 18 if they have been imported into Australia by a doctor for smoking cessation purposes, from an Australian pharmacy or with a valid prescription.
It is illegal for all other retailers in NSW to sell nicotine-containing e-cigarettes or e-liquids.
Restrictions on illegal nicotine sales extend to online stores, with fines of up to $1,650, six months in jail or both for each offense.
Selling to minors also carries hefty fines. For individuals, up to $11,000 for a first offense and $55,000 for a second or subsequent offense; For companies, the maximum is $55,000 for a first violation and $110,000 for a second or subsequent violation.
Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant says retailers will be notified if they sell banned products. "We are cracking down on the illegal sale of nicotine e-cigarettes and liquids and have a zero tolerance approach to those who sell them," she said.
"NSW Health conducts regular surprise checks on retailers across the state to protect young people from these devices. Illegal items can be confiscated and practitioners can face prosecution that can lead to fines or even jail time.