Italy Cracks Down on Illegal Online Tobacco and Vape Sales

Jun.27.2024
Italy Cracks Down on Illegal Online Tobacco and Vape Sales
Italian customs and monopoly agency has banned 8 more websites, totaling 861 sites, mostly for illegal tobacco sales.

According to a report by Sigmagazine on June 26th, the number of banned websites in Italy has increased to 861 with the recent addition of 8 new websites by the Customs and Monopolies Agency (Agenzia delle dogane e monopoli).


Most of these are due to the illegal sale of tobacco products, but there is also a significant portion of online stores selling e-cigarettes and vaping liquids, as well as street vendors and display websites for manufacturing companies.


The websites that have been notified must make adjustments to their operation by July 9, removing elements or products that cannot be accessed by individuals, including ready-to-use liquids and disposable e-cigarettes.


A recent regulation from the Turin court requires that e-cigarette products cannot be promoted through commercial advertising campaigns, and promotional flyers or posters cannot be used inside stores for advertising. However, showcasing the technical features of the devices or the flavors of mixed spices is allowed, but subjective comments or language intended to attract consumer curiosity or attention are prohibited.


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