New York City is experiencing a surge in illegal flavored e-vapes made in China, according to a new study. This influx comes in the wake of the 2020 ban on the sale of flavored vape products intended to prevent youth addiction to nicotine.
Study Findings: A Closer Look at the Flavored Vape Issue
The market research group WSPM, commissioned by Atria (which sells disposable legal vapes under the label Njoy), surveyed over 100 locations across the city’s five boroughs. They collected empty discarded packets from streets and garbage bins between February 1 and March 21 of this year.
Key Findings:
- Of the 2,000 discarded vape samples collected, 99% were exported from China, and 99% were flavored—which is outlawed.
- China-based Air Bar Disposable’s vapes accounted for half of all the disposed packs collected.
Industry Impact and Enforcement Challenges
The study illustrates how illicit flavored disposable vapes have saturated not only New York City but the entire state. Altria spokesperson David Sutton noted the negative impact on companies that comply with the law, emphasizing the need for stronger enforcement efforts to remove these illicit products from the market.
The illicit sales undermine the legal market for companies like Altria and convenience stores that sell allowed vapes. Kent Sopris, president of the New York State Association of Convenience Store owners, highlighted the lack of enforcement as a significant issue, stating, “We can’t have products banned when there is no enforcement mechanism.”
Law Enforcement and Regulatory Actions
The city’s sheriff office and the NYPD, in their crackdown on illegal cannabis shops, have discovered that some operators are also selling the banned flavored vapes. This has prompted calls for making the enforcement of the vape ban a priority as well.
A recent NYSACS poll indicated that a majority of Empire State residents believe that government officials are doing a poor job enforcing the ban on flavored vapes. In response, federal regulators have also sent warning letters to Chinese-based firms responsible for popular flavored disposable e-cigarette products, highlighting the need for compliance and enforcement action.
City’s Response and Future Outlook
Mayor Adams‘ administration has taken legal action against wholesalers involved in the illegal sale of flavored e-cigarettes, reflecting the city’s commitment to combatting this issue. Gov. Kathy Hochul‘s office has pledged to work closely with city partners to address the ongoing problem, emphasizing the importance of protecting public health, particularly that of young New Yorkers.
This ongoing issue underscores the challenge of regulating the vape market and ensuring compliance with existing laws, especially given the international origins of many illegal products. The city and state’s efforts to curb these illegal sales are crucial in protecting public health and ensuring the effectiveness of the 2020 ban on flavored vapes.
Is this blackening China?
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