Australia's strict vaping and tobacco policies drive a $500m black market, attracting organized crime.

Australia's strict vaping and tobacco policies have resulted in a thriving black market, attracting organized crime groups. The country's high taxes on tobacco and vaping products and the prescription model for accessing vapes create demand for illicit products. The black market, driven by economic forces on both supply and demand sides, is estimated to be worth up to $500m in Victoria alone, with smokers and vapers unable to afford legal products.

March 12, 2024
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