South Australia has moved aggressively against the illegal tobacco and vape trade, issuing 100 28‑day closure orders to stores since June 5. Authorities have seized products with an estimated value of about A$50 million (US$32.5 million), including 41 million cigarettes, 140,000 vapes and 13,585 kg of loose tobacco.

The actions form part of a state-led crackdown backed by an A$16 million (US$10.4 million) illicit tobacco taskforce, targeting outlets across both metropolitan and regional areas. So far two long-term closures have been imposed, and five more are pending before the Magistrates Court.

The Malinauskas Government says the measures aim to disrupt organised crime networks profiting from illicit sales. Penalties can reach up to A$6.6 million (US$4.3 million) for large‑scale offenders, and landlords who knowingly permit such activity face fines of up to A$50,000 (US$32,500).

This article was adapted from an original report published on tobaccoreporter.com. All rights belong to the original publisher.