INDIANAPOLIS— U.S. Customs and Border Protections officers in Indianapolis seized six shipments containing over 10,000 unapproved Juul Pods. All the shipments originated from an individual in Ontario, Canada and were headed to various locations in New York and New Jersey.
The FDA determined the shipments violated the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) as misbranded consumer goods being imported by an unauthorized agent. Tobacco products imported or offered for import into the United States must comply with all applicable U.S. laws. Read more about the FDA’s regulations governing e-cigarettes and other tobacco products.
The shipments arrived separately and were all seized on April 8. The packages were mis-manifested as electrical apparatus, a common practice used by smugglers. CBP believed the shipment was intentionally improperly labeled to avoid detection. A total of 10,464 pods were seized. The pods had an MSRP over $156,000.
“Our officers are dedicated to identifying and intercepting these types of shipments that could potentially harm communities,” said Kerry Carter, Acting Port Director-Indianapolis. “Our officers and specialists enforce hundreds of laws for many partner agencies, and are committed to ensuring the health and safety of American citizens.”
Last year the FDA announced an increased enforcement priority of electronic nicotine delivery systems, and issued detailed guidance to the industry of these new enforcement priorities that regulate the unauthorized importation of tobacco products.
CBP provides basic import information about admissibility requirements and the clearance process for e-commerce goods and encourages buyers to confirm that their purchases and the importation of those purchases comply with any state and federal import regulations.
CBP conducts operations at ports of entry throughout the United States, and regularly screens arriving international passengers and cargo for narcotics, weapons, and other restricted or prohibited products. CBP strives to serve as the premier law enforcement agency enhancing the Nation’s safety, security, and prosperity through collaboration, innovation, and integration.