Germany: The Sueddeutsche Zeitung, one of the largest daily newspapers in Germany,
has investigated the German vape black market, with a focus on around 20 online shops that sell illegal products in Germany. According to the newspaper, these sellers are likely smuggling products from China without adhering to EU laws, including registration and age-verification requirements. The report highlights that illegal products constitute 30% to 60% of the German market. Local authorities acknowledge their limited ability to enforce regulations due to “well-organised structures behind the trade in disposable vapes”, low enforcement priorities, and minimal sanctions for violators. In parallel, around 200,000 vapes intended for the EU market have been
confiscated by German customs in Frankfurt.