From Fortune:

U.S. officials are facing a challenging battle to stop the flow of unauthorized electronic cigarettes into the country. Despite seizing thousands of new flavored products, industry data shows that over 11,500 vaping products are being sold in U.S. stores, up 27% from 9,000 products in June.

The rise in e-cigarettes sold continues despite a record number of products detained, with over 374 shipments refused this year. Chinese companies are finding ways to maneuver around import bans, and industry shipping tactics are challenging the usefulness of import restrictions.

The FDA has limited powers to penalize foreign companies, but public health groups are pushing for a more effective regulatory framework for e-cigarettes. One alternative approach is to make decisions about entire classes of e-cigarettes, rather than individual products, a move supported by many concerned about the persistence of underage vaping.



Read more: FDA plays whack-a-mole with illegal Chinese e-cigarettes